Each season brings with it fresh challenges for a dog owner. From the heat of summer to the icy chill of winter days, your dog might need some changes in his or her care as each season gets into full swing.
The scorching heat of summer can make us all a bit miserable at times, but unlike dogs, at least humans have a built-in system of sweat glands that help them cool off. Dogs do have some sweat glands, mostly in their paws, but this doesn't really help them control their overall body temperature. Providing shady spots to relax outside or allowing them to bask in the joy of an air-conditioned house are good options. Dogs need plenty of water in the summertime, and it's also not a bad idea to shorten the length of their fur during the hottest months. Be sure to never leave your dog in a hot car as this is a very common and tragic cause of pet death. If your dog craves a daily walk, just keep it a bit shorter and opt for early morning or at twilight, when the temperature drops.
While that furry coat might provide your dog with a big winter advantage over humans, dogs still can be affected by the cold of winter. Frostbite can occur and because the winter tends to be very dry, dehydration also can be a problem. Puppies and old dogs tend to feel the ill effects of winter more markedly than healthy dogs in the prime of life. Some dogs also just seem to get cold more easily than others, just as people do, so just be aware of your dogs needs. Of course, with winter comes the holiday season, so make sure your dog doesn't nibble on gift wrap, chew on the Christmas tree or munch on electrical cords or tinsel.
As the Ides of March approach and the promise of Spring is in the air, other challenges arise for our pets. For one thing, we begin planting during these Spring months and often use pesticides and slug bait in our gardens, which can be toxic for pets. People aren't the only ones often affected by allergies, so sometimes these seasonal allergies also will affect an animal. In addition, the bug world is waking up from winter, and there are bees and other insects roaming about. Stings and bites are more common in the Spring and Summer and when your pet is bitten or stung, you will need to provide some medical care.
Autumn is a beautiful time and we often enjoy a happy walk under the blanket of colorful trees. During this season, two of the biggest hazards occur during specific holidays, such as Halloween and Thanksgiving. Halloween candy should be kept far away from pets as many of the ingredients are highly toxic for your dog. Likewise, it is not wise to allow your dog to nibble from the Thanksgiving table either, as these fatty, sugary foods are not the best choices for your hound.
Truly, one of the best ways to keep a pet safe and healthy is by ensuring that your dog is well trained. An obedient dog will stay away from harmful plants and animals when commanded and will not run away and end up in dangerous situations. If you are struggling with obedience issues, consider an easy-to-follow DVD dog training system such as The Dog's Way. In just a few weeks, your dog will be a happy and safe pet.
The scorching heat of summer can make us all a bit miserable at times, but unlike dogs, at least humans have a built-in system of sweat glands that help them cool off. Dogs do have some sweat glands, mostly in their paws, but this doesn't really help them control their overall body temperature. Providing shady spots to relax outside or allowing them to bask in the joy of an air-conditioned house are good options. Dogs need plenty of water in the summertime, and it's also not a bad idea to shorten the length of their fur during the hottest months. Be sure to never leave your dog in a hot car as this is a very common and tragic cause of pet death. If your dog craves a daily walk, just keep it a bit shorter and opt for early morning or at twilight, when the temperature drops.
While that furry coat might provide your dog with a big winter advantage over humans, dogs still can be affected by the cold of winter. Frostbite can occur and because the winter tends to be very dry, dehydration also can be a problem. Puppies and old dogs tend to feel the ill effects of winter more markedly than healthy dogs in the prime of life. Some dogs also just seem to get cold more easily than others, just as people do, so just be aware of your dogs needs. Of course, with winter comes the holiday season, so make sure your dog doesn't nibble on gift wrap, chew on the Christmas tree or munch on electrical cords or tinsel.
As the Ides of March approach and the promise of Spring is in the air, other challenges arise for our pets. For one thing, we begin planting during these Spring months and often use pesticides and slug bait in our gardens, which can be toxic for pets. People aren't the only ones often affected by allergies, so sometimes these seasonal allergies also will affect an animal. In addition, the bug world is waking up from winter, and there are bees and other insects roaming about. Stings and bites are more common in the Spring and Summer and when your pet is bitten or stung, you will need to provide some medical care.
Autumn is a beautiful time and we often enjoy a happy walk under the blanket of colorful trees. During this season, two of the biggest hazards occur during specific holidays, such as Halloween and Thanksgiving. Halloween candy should be kept far away from pets as many of the ingredients are highly toxic for your dog. Likewise, it is not wise to allow your dog to nibble from the Thanksgiving table either, as these fatty, sugary foods are not the best choices for your hound.
Truly, one of the best ways to keep a pet safe and healthy is by ensuring that your dog is well trained. An obedient dog will stay away from harmful plants and animals when commanded and will not run away and end up in dangerous situations. If you are struggling with obedience issues, consider an easy-to-follow DVD dog training system such as The Dog's Way. In just a few weeks, your dog will be a happy and safe pet.
About the Author:
Garrett McMahan enjoys watching dog show. For more information regarding the best dog training DVDs, or to find dog leash training videos online, please visit the TheDogsWay site now.
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