The site was last updated on
24 Aug 2000
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Summer Tips For Dog Owners
The weather is getting warmer,
and when temperatures go up, you will need to make some adjustments for your
dogs. Here are some points to keep in mind:
- Most dogs will begin to lose their
undercoats. The undercoat is the woolly fur that keeps the dog warm in the
winter. If this coat is not brushed out, it becomes entangled in the top
coat and matted. The customer should purchase a shedding blade and groom
their dog more often until all of the undercoat is out, or make regular
grooming appointments and let our grooming professionals do it for them. A
shave-down might be appropriate, however, don't assume that all long-coated
or thick-coated dogs should be shaved for summer. Long, thick coats can help
provide insulation in both cold and hot weather. Removal of the natural
insulation could stress a dog.
- Dogs should not be left in a car
this time of year for any length of time.
- You should try to schedule your daily walk
with your dog in the early morning or in the evening. If evening walks are a
better option, try leashes with built-in flashlights.
- Even though a dog's pads are tough, they
can be burned on hot pavement or asphalt. If you must take your pet for a
walk during the day, try doggie booties.
- If your dog enjoys the water, consider
filling a kiddy pool and placing it in the yard.
- Dogs that lack dark pigmentation around
their eyes, nose and ears, and dogs that are light in color can suffer from
sunburn. Sunscreen should be applied to these sun-sensitive areas.
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