Pets get affected by the weather just the way we humans do. Whether it is the winter chills or the scorching summer heat, pets need special care and protection to stay healthy, safe and comfortable in all seasons. So, how do you provide the best season-specific care to your furry bundle of joy? Let us help you.
In this article, we have listed some useful tips and tricks to provide seasonal care to pets and ensure their well-being all year round.
Season-wise pet care tips
Winter: Fighting the chilling weather
With the onset of winter, the weather gets colder by the day. And your four-legged friend, though furry, needs to keep warm to stay safe and healthy. Here are some simple ways to keep your pet comfortable in winter:
- Limit outdoor exposure
Long walks and outdoor games are not for winter. Spending time outside in freezing temperatures can expose your pet to serious health risks like frostbite and hypothermia. Reduce the outside activities during winter and cover your pet with a warm coat and booties when you are taking them out. - Keep pets active indoors
Though it is not advisable to take pets outside frequently in winter, they need to be kept active as always. Get plush toys to engage your pet in an exciting tug-of-war game or provide interesting puzzle toys to provide them with both physical and mental stimulation. Winter gives you the best opportunity to spend quality time with your pet and strengthen your bond with your furry family member. - Get cozy beds & blankets
It is not just you who love to get wrapped in a warm blanket during the cold weather. Pets also enjoy lying in a soft bed covered in a cozy blanket and cuddling with their favorite soft toys. Provide a comfortable bed and warm blanket to your furball to keep them warm indoors. - Take care of paws
No matter how short the outside adventure is, the ice and salt can be tough on your pet’s paws. Make sure you use booties to protect your pet’s paws from ice. You can also use a paw balm to moisturize their paw pads and prevent cracked, dry paw pads.
Spring: Guarding against parasites & allergies
It is time to come out of hibernation. The gradual departure of winter makes the environment pleasant for outdoor adventures. Here are a few tips to take care of pets in spring while enjoying the season’s nuances to their fullest:
- Protect from allergies
The season of re-growth makes pets vulnerable to allergies from pollen, grass and mold resulting in health issues like sneezing, itching and skin irritation. Practice regular grooming and clean your pet’s paws after outdoor activities to minimize the chances of infections. If your furry companion develops any allergic symptoms, consult a veterinarian to provide them with proper care. - Flea & Tick protection
As the weather gets warmer, fleas and ticks become active. Take steps beforehand and start with appropriate flea and tick treatments to keep these nasty parasites away from your pet. Be it palatable chewable or mess-free spot-on solutions, easy-to-use sprays and powders or protective collars, there are plenty of flea and tick control options available to help you protect your pet. - Clean and rejuvenate
It is also a time for cleaning your pet’s surroundings. Get rid of the worn toys and clean the dirty beds and blankets. Get new toys and accessories for your fur friend and make them ready to venture outside to enjoy the weather.
Summer: Beating the heat
Summertime is suitable for both indoor and outdoor activities. It is all about getting your pet sun-kissed on bright days and keeping them in shelters during the scorching heat. Here is what you can do:
- Schedule the walks
Long walks or outdoor playtime in summer afternoons can overheat your pet and can cause sunburns. Instead, go for morning and evening walks when the sun is not harsh with only absolutely necessary outside strolls during the day. It is also a good idea to protect your pet with sunscreen wipes, sticks or spray while taking them outside in summer. - Keep pets hydrated
It is essential to keep your pet hydrated during the hot summer months. Make sure that clean and fresh drinking water is available to them at all times. You can also carry a water bottle and bowl with you when you go out with your fur baby. - Have a fun time in the water
Water plays in summer serve both purposes: keeping your pet cool and providing them with fun-filled playtime. Introduce floating toys that your pet can play with in water and take them to the poolside for energetic swimming sessions.
Also! Fight against Fleas and Ticks with these effective Tips : Protect Your Pet from Fleas & Ticks in Summer
Fall/Autumn: Readying for the seasonal changes
The beautiful landscapes with fallen leaves are the ideal times for exploring nature with your pet. Autumn is also the time to prepare your pet for the upcoming chilly weather. Follow these tips to make your pet ready:
- Regular grooming
Pets shed a lot in this season. Grooming helps remove loose hair, tangles and mats from your pet’s coat. Conduct regular grooming sessions to keep your pet clean and tidy. - Adjust your pet’s diet
With the cooler season approaching, pets need more food to maintain their energy levels. Excessive feeding again is not advisable as it can result in weight gain. Portion your four-legged friend’s diet in a way that they get ideal nutrition during these changing weather times. - Provide joint care
Pets experience discomfort and stress in joints during cooler weather. Consider adding joint health supplements to your pet’s diet and provide specially designed beds to support and comfort their joints.
Explore: Winter Care for Your Pet’s Joints Tips
To conclude
Change in weather is as care-demanding for pets as their human counterparts. With proper care and attention, you can keep your furry family member healthy and happy all year round. Follow the tips and tricks suggested in this article to help your pet with seasonal changes. Explore the rich collection of pet supplies available on BudgeVetCare to get everything you need to provide season-specific care to your beloved furry companion.