Dogs are a lot like humans in the sense that they can struggle to stay healthy. You can sometimes see when they’re not feeling right because they lay about or don’t have a bounce in their step. However, other times, it’s less observable when they’re suffering from ill-health. Here are six ways to keep your dog healthier in all seasons.
1. Give Them Relevant Supplements
Dogs benefit from supplements just like we do. If you’re worried about their sensitive bowels, then have no fear because there are natural dog supplements too. Supplementation can fix them right up and avoid a trip to the vet. They know what the outside of the vet’s building looks like and it’s not a happy time for them! If you’re looking for a reputable supplier, Native Pet provides natural dog supplements that address many different concerns from painkillers to managing allergies. Your pooch doesn’t need to suffer needlessly.
2. Pay Attention to Allergic Reactions
Some dogs are sensitive to the outdoors and can suffer from allergies. Their reactions can include things like red skin, sneezing, biting, and licking themselves more than normal, or breaking out in hives. Even watery eyes are a possible reaction to something. Probiotics are useful to ward off problems relating to allergic reactions. They can bolster their immune system to reduce symptoms, especially with repeated sneezing. Also, fish oil that’s rich in Omega 3 is better for them than Omega 6. Indeed, it can help balance out an excess of Omega 6 which has been shown to increase their sensitivity.
3. Stay Aware of Heat and Humidity Levels
Heat and humidity during hotter days are key considerations to keep your dog safe.
Don’t Leave Your Dog in the Car
A car on a hot day where it’s 85 degrees externally can become over 110 degrees within 30-40 minutes inside the vehicle with the sun beating down on it. This can cause them to overheat and potentially damage their organs, which is not fixable after the fact. It’s better to take them with you or leave them at home.
Heat and Exercise on Hotter Days
Taking them for their daily walk should be done either earlier in the day or after the sun has settled. This avoids their walking around in the midday sun where they’re the most susceptible to heat issues.
Bear in mind that asphalt at high exterior temperature levels can burn their paws, which is not something we might ordinarily think about. Also, avoiding the sun protects them from potential skin cancer too.
How Your Dog Keeps Cool
Dogs let moisture escape from their bodies by panting. On humid days, you’ll observe this behavior more frequently. With excessive humidity, they will struggle to keep their lungs dry and their heat levels down. Also, they sweat through their paws, not their whole body. So, a fan left on in an enclosed space won’t help much to keep their body temperature lower.
4. Keep Them Well Groomed
Your dog needs to be given the once-over each week. Look for unusual lumps, unexpected spots, or abrasions indicating that they’ve been in a fight with another animal outside. Any cuts need to be treated to disinfect the wound, cover it, and avoid fidgeting with it. If it’s severe, they’ll need to see a vet.
They also require grooming regularly. Not only does it make them look and smell better, but it helps to clear away debris in their fur, and malting hair too. It’s also easier to spot ticks, flea infestations, or a new skin condition when they’re groomed properly.
5. Give Them Consistent Exercise
Most dogs love to be active. Even the ones that prefer to be sedentary need to be encouraged to get outside for walks. It is good for their heart and the rest of their cardiovascular system to be exercised. Look for places that they particularly enjoy and get them out of their shell if they’re less socialized. That could be a local park, playing in nature, or meeting new people.
6. Don’t Ignore Mental Activity Too
Dogs do have times when they’re happy to sleep more and are less playful. However, they shouldn’t be allowed to remain this way unless they’re poorly. They benefit from playing with their owner, having fun, and being mentally challenged. While they do like their routines, some spontaneity can also be enjoyable for them too. Try different toys to see which they prefer. Also, pick some toys that you can play with together, like a Tug-O-War chew toy or playing fetch with a ball in the park.
For dogs, it’s a mixed bag of tricks needed to keep them healthy. In summer, overheating is a concern, and steps must be taken to keep them at regular temperatures. During winter, wrap them up in a coat and avoid being outside in freezing environments. Also, always remember that they do rely on their pet owner to obtain and maintain optimal health.
