Who loves the warmer weather more after a long winter, you or your pup? That can be a difficult question to answer, but how you prepare your dog for spring is simple.
I think it’s safe to say your is just as anxious for as you. But how will you ready your for the s?
As you tackle your tasks, there are a few simple things you can do to help your make this seasonal transition. Today let’s dig and learn how to prepare your dog for spring and on a budget.
Budget Tip:
Like anything in life, preparation is key. The payoff of better dog health is always worth it in the end. With a few steps you can keep your pup healthy and spring ready. That's a major win-win for you and your buddy.
1. Vet checkup
If it’s time for your ‘s checkup, make sure you schedule it now. Many veterinarians are booked several weeks or months out. To maintain your ‘s health, it’s a great idea to have your vet check your pup out at least twice a year.
NOTE: My , Henry gets a check-up in May (his rescue or gotcha birthday) and November (before the holiday season starts). Often, something will pop up in between these dates that will necessitate vet visit. However, it’s a good idea to make check ups associated with special days like gotcha birthdays.
2. and prevention
is when you should think about and care. These are most active during the and summer months. The nice thing is that most of these preventative care supplements are monthly doses, much like Heartgard for preventing is administered monthly. It’s definitely something you’ll want to discuss with your vet.
3. Watch for
As you may have that arise during the , your can do the same. Some allergy symptoms you will want to watch for are:
- runny eyes
- itching
- sneezing
- coughing
- red spots on the skin
I bet that list sounds familiar, right? It certainly does to me as I sniffle and write this article. If your ‘s appear to be getting worse, please consult your vet for advice. Henry tends to suffer from on and off throughout the year, but they are much worse in the and fall.
Here are some natural ways to combat your buddy’s allergies.
4. Review chip and tag data
I know microchips and ID tags are something most of us do once and don’t think about again. But as good , we really need to review our ‘s chip data at least once a year. You want to make sure the vet, phone number, backup person, address, , and all other pertinent information is correct. It’s something that can easily slip through the cracks.
Additionally, make sure that the information on your ‘s ID tags is still correct and legible. Some tags become worn over time and are not easy to read. Or we change phone numbers or move and don’t think about our dog’s tags.
5. of your
Yep, springtime is also the time. That means lots of brushing your g. As you brush your dog, make sure you carefully inspect your ‘s skin for any lumps, bumps, or other ailments. If you find anything suspicious, review it with your vet.
I generally groom Henry with his short summer cut in . If you take your to a groomer, your dog might be getting close to a summer cut. However, keep in mind that some breeds, like huskies and collies, should never have their fur cut. But that doesn’t mean you can avoid brushing them.
6. Inspect toys, bedding, clothes, and other accessories
In your springtime cleanup, review all your ‘s toys, bedding, clothing, kennels, and other items. If there is damage and you can reasonably repair it without harming your , then that’s a great option. Otherwise, discard the torn or broken items, which is generally the best choice. However, if all you need to do is put a new screw in your ‘s kennel, then that’s an easy fix and certainly doesn’t warrant tossing.
7. Clean bedding, toys, collars, clothing, brushes, and accessories
After you’ve inspected all of your ‘s items, then thoroughly clean them. Some pieces will be able to go into your washing machine on the gentle cycle. These items will most likely be bedding along with some clothing and toys. Although, other objects you may need to hand wash, which can even be done in a sink or outside with a hose. I like to always use at least a 1/4 cup of distilled vinegar when I wash Henry’s accessories and a no-scent detergent. However, Dawn Blue dish soap will work in a pinch.
8. Pack away winter clothes for the
Now, that you’ve washed everything, go ahead and pack them away in a closet, drawer, or some other place of convenience. This includes any sweaters or coats your won’t need for the . When you pull them out they will be clean. To keep them smelling fresh, you can put them into a zip bag or storage clothing zip bag with a sachet of baking soda. Simply place 1/2 cup of baking soda into a 6″x6″ cloth, tie it up, and place it into the bag. Voilà!
9. Evaluate your yard for any winter damage
Over the your yard may have been covered with , leaves, or other debris. As it is uncovered, carefully evaluate your fence, paint, trees, and other landscaping items. Make sure to repair anything that has deteriorated in the winter months. Your yard is a place both you and your should be able to safely enjoy. You may be surprised to find dangers lurking in your pup’s yard.
10. Inspect the inside and outside of your home for any winter damages
Again, as you do your spring cleaning with your buddy in mind, you’re looking for chipped paint, exposed nails, mold, pulled boards, or other issues that could hurt your fur kid. Repair each item so that your furry buddy and you are safe.
11. Correct bad behaviors that have popped up over the winter
While it was cold and we hunkered down inside, our pups may have developed a few bad behaviors. If this is the case, then consider enrolling in a training class.
Think of it as going back to school. It will help to refocus your , get you among other like-minded dog lovers, and kick off your on the right paw, so to speak. If your is high-energy, or you want to try something new, you can even look into classes. It will keep your ‘s mind active while giving your and you a new bonding activity. There are many positive reinforcement trainers available, some will even come to your home.
How does preparing your dog for spring save money?
You may not think much of the changing season as impacting your pup, except for the shedding. But with a few key preparations, you can avoid more bills in the future. Considering the following for a moment.
| Possible Issue | Estimated Cost |
| No vaccine leading to kennel cough or worse | $50 – 200 |
| Pup infected with ticks or fleas | $200 – 1,000 |
| Buddy has allergies, is not as active, and puts on weight | $250 |
| Choking on toy stuffing | A happy and healthy pup |
| Avoiding a yard or home injury | $800 – 2,500 |
| Lost dog without updated microchip or tags | HEARTBREAKING!!! |
| Happy and healthy pup | PRICELESS!!! |
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Wag-worthy ways to prepare your for
You may have never thought about prepping your for . But just like most things in life, a successful outcome happens with a little prep work.
Thankfully, most of the prep doesn’t take much time or effort and can be done with your regular springtime clean-up. Of course, the top of the spring list includes making an appointment to see your vet, keeping your dog brushed, and securing your yard after the winter.
Knowing your is springtime ready and you don’t need to worry, is cause to rejoice and hit the trails for the first spring hike. I know a good hike is always on Henry’s and my list.
