The return of warm weather brings with it both the excitement of outdoor activity and for some, the difficulty of allergens. These are two very big seasonal changes for many dogs, and you can help them through this fun yet overwhelming time of year.


ALLERGIES


Seasonal allergies come in two forms for dogs; atopic allergies and flea allergies.

Atopic allergies are those of inhaled allergens such as dust, pollen, and mold, often causing reactions on the skin and in the respiratory system. Flea allergies are very common, caused by fleas’ saliva when a dog is bitten.

• Itchy, red, or scabby skin
  
  
• Paw or body chewing/excessive licking
  
  
• Itchy ears and ear infections
  
  
• Itchy, runny, or discharging eyes
  
  
• Sneezing
  
  
• Snoring caused by respiratory inflammation
  

Luckily, flea allergies can be relatively easily prevented with flea and tick products recommended by your veterinarian. Atopic allergies can be somewhat more difficult to treat, but there are several different options. Consult with your veterinarian to figure out your dog’s specific allergies and how to manage them. Some environmental factors such as dust and mold can be managed with regular cleaning and an air filtration unit. Other allergens like pollen are unfortunately more difficult to avoid, but other management options exist as well. Giving your dog frequent baths and wiping their paws, face, and ears after walks keeps them more free of allergens that stick to their body, alleviating itching and scratching symptoms. For serious conditions, you can consult your veterinarian about options such as medication or immunotherapy.



EXERCISE


Know the feeling after the first gym session in a long time? Dogs can get sore and need to build up their stamina for exercise as well! Even though it’s tempting to take long runs on the first nice days, your dog may need some preparation first.


Start slow and with short exercise sessions, build up their exercise as their endurance increases. Remember to vary their types of exercise and walking routes to keep it exciting, and always bring or know where to find clean water.


Exercise your dog depending on their individual needs. Consider their breed, age, size, and physical condition. Keep in mind, most of our dogs were not made for the climate they live in!

• Breeds with long fur and breeds with flat noses can overheat quickly, and may require gentler or even less outdoor exercise in the warm months.
  
  
• Very large dogs can be prone to joint and hip problems, which long runs may exaggerate. Large dogs therefore they may need an even slower increase in exercise.
  
  
• Puppies should also not be taken for runs for long periods or distances, as their joints are not fully developed.
  
  
• Those of us with senior dogs also may need accomodate their limited abilities in the warm weather, which can be tiring or dehydrating for them.
  

*    Always remember to let your dogwalkers know your dogs’ exercise needs and restrictions!

*    If the hot weather makes it more difficult for your dog to exercise outside for any reason, supplement their exercise with indoor activities like games, puzzles, and treat toys.


Skateboarding, Biking, and Rollerblading

These activities can be dangerous to do with dogs unless they are properly trained for them. If your dog is easily distracted or likes to sniff around a lot outside, odds are that they will get distracted or stop to sniff even if you are attached to them and moving on wheels! You can train your dog to pay attention to you by rewarding them with small treats for looking forward or at you, for walking in the spot you’d like them to, and for not pulling. Let them have a sniff and potty break just before going biking or skating with them, and train a cue for them to know when it is time to start and jog politely beside you!

Indoor Exercise

Many of us are all too familiar with a bit of seasonal depression during the cold months, and many dogs unfortunately experience this as well! Dogs that are active and enjoy the outdoors can especially have a hard time in the winter as their walks shorten and their socialization time diminishes. To keep your dog happy and healthy during this time it is important to give them plenty of exercise and mental stimulation indoors!

Space in the city is obviously limited, but if you have or can arrange the space for an indoor game of fetch, your dog will be very grateful! Tug is a great indoor game for small spaces, but make sure you play properly and are exchanging the toy for treats intermittently. Doggy puzzles and working toys can be great ways for your pet to spend some mental and physical energy on their own, here are some recommended products.
Remember to alter your dog’s meals if they have eaten a lot during playtime, or alternatively, feed them their meals IN working toys.

A great winter ‘outing’ for you and your pet is at Water4Dogs, where your pup can take fun, confidence-boosting indoor swimming lessons.


The Scoop on Salt!

Sidewalk and road salt can be harmful to even the toughest of paws. The danger comes from the toxic chemicals often added to them, as well as salt’s abrasive and water-thirsty characteristics. Walking on salt can cause paws to dry and crack, and ingesting it can be harmful or even fatal. Before your dog gets a chance to lick their paws clean after their walk, wipe their feet off with a moist towel or grooming wipe, and don’t forget in between the toes! Salt stuck between toes for an extended period can lead to an infection.

You can take preventative measures to protect your pooch from harm from the salt! There is a wealth of great dog boots that come in all sizes, you can find them here on our store. To get your dog used to wearing them, put all four boots on and just have your dog follow you around while you hand them treats, some positive motivation will get them going! Another great preventative option is paw wax, which may be an easier adjustment for some dogs than boots. If your dog is having a lot of trouble or is hating their boots, contact a trainer. Also, if you are one of the city-dwellers lucky enough to have an area that needs to be salted, use a non-toxic salt that is safe for dogs! Dogs should never consume any snow that has salt or ice-melting agents in it. Many dogs enjoy eating fresh and unsalted snow, though be careful because excessive consumption can lead to vomiting.

Additionally, many dogs can greatly benefit from a coat in the cold. Dogs with short or thin hair, small dogs, and elderly dogs especially require the warmth when the temperature goes down. An ideal coat will have a snug fit and a slot for the leash if your dog wears a back-attaching harness. Pullovers and coats with sleeves or zippers can be difficult and uncomfortable for some dogs.