Spring into Action
Ah, springtime—the season of blooming flowers, chirping birds, and...doggy dilemmas? That's right, fellow dog lovers, as the world awakens from its winter slumber, our furry friends face a unique set of challenges.
I can't believe that it is already feeling like spring in Ottawa! This may be temporary, however, for the next few weeks, temperatures will be above 0C which will start the thaw and muddy paws.
1. Puddle Perils: The Temptation of Tainted Water
Picture this: you're strolling through the park with your pup when suddenly, they spot it—the irresistible allure of a murky puddle. Before you can say "No, don't drink that!", they've taken a gulp of what can only be described as liquid mystery. The joys of springtime puddle water, complete with melted animal poop and a dash of salt. It's like a gourmet cocktail for dogs, with a side of gastrointestinal upset. Training your dog to not drink out of puddles will keep them safe. Spring is a time where our pooches may get diarrhea from drinking from the disgusting "fountain". If runny poops lasts more than a few days, your dog may need some antibiotics to help them reset.
2. Muddy Paw Mayhem: Embracing the Mud Spa Experience
Mud, glorious mud! While it may be a dog's idea of a spa day, it's every dog owner's nightmare. One minute your pup is prancing through the park, and the next, they're sporting a pair of mud-caked paws worthy of a modern art exhibit. But fear not, for there's beauty in the chaos of muddy paws. Embrace the mess, laugh at the absurdity, and stock up on those trusty paw wipes for impromptu clean-up sessions. After all, a little mud never hurt anyone...except maybe your clean floors. When cleaning your dog's paws, try to keep their paws underneath them vs pulling their leg out to the side. Some dogs get mouthy or try to move away, it is most likely because the way you are grabbing their leg may be uncomfortable. By keeping the paws underneath their body, this is a lot more comfy for them. Investing in a doggie hair dryer, will help get your stinky wet pooch dry in no time.
Video of drying Conan - six month old Doberman puppy's paws.
Link to video of blow drying Finlay
3. Springtime Shedding: A Hairy Situation
May the fluff be with you! I do have to say, after having a border collie/lab mix (Storm) and then Breeze being a German Shepherd mix, I don't miss shedding season. I'm very lucky that Finlay doesn't shed! BUT, if you have a dog that does....tis the season —the time when your once sleek and shiny pup transforms into a walking fur factory. It's like a never-ending game of "Guess Who Shed That?" as tufts of fur float through the air like tiny, fluffy snowflakes. Embrace the shedding season with grace and invest in a good vacuum cleaner! Using the right tools will help tremendously. A double sided shedding blade is perfect for double coated pooches or rubber brushes are great for short hair dogs. DO NOT use the Furminator-this actually breaks the fur and makes shedding worse. A little extra fur is just a small price to pay for the unconditional love of your furry companion.
Shedding Blade - double coated dogs
Palm Brush - short hair dogs
4. Flower Power: Beware of Toxic Blooms
As the flowers bloom and the world bursts with color, it's essential to be mindful of the flora that surrounds us. While those vibrant blossoms may be a feast for the eyes, some can spell trouble for our canine companions. Keep an eye out for toxic plants like lilies, azaleas, and daffodils, and steer clear of any potential petal pitfalls. After all, nothing ruins a springtime stroll like a trip to the vet.
Ontario SPCA list of toxic plants.
5. Allergy Antics: Sneezes and Sniffles
Humans aren't the only ones who suffer from seasonal allergies. Our furry friends can also fall victim to the pollen-filled perils of springtime. Keep an eye out for signs of allergy-induced discomfort, such as sneezing, itching, and watery eyes. Consult with your vet for tips on managing your pup's allergies and help them navigate the sniffly season with ease.
6. Digging
Spring is a tough time for puppies as all the new smells and new things appear! Leaving your young pup unsupervised in the back yard is a recipe for numerous holes dug as your young pooch is exploring this new found world and exploring with their mouth. Long leashes and redirecting them is essential in order for them to learn what to do. LOTS of C.P.R (Consistency. PATIENCE & Repetition).
In Conclusion: Embracing the Quirks of Spring with a Wagging Tail
As we bid farewell to the winter chill and embrace the warmth of spring, let's remember to approach the season with a sense of humor and a wagging tail. From puddle perils to shedding season shenanigans, springtime with our furry friends is never dull. So, grab those paw wipes, keep an eye out for toxic blooms, and embrace the chaos of muddy paws with a smile. After all, life with a dog is an adventure filled with love, laughter, and a healthy dose of muddy mayhem.
#SpringtimeWoofs #DoggyDilemmas #PuddlePerils #MuddyPawMayhem #SheddingSeason #FlowerPowerPets #AllergyAntics #SpringtimeShenanigans #FurryFriendFollies #DogLifeChallenges
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