As a host in our community of home boarders, ensuring the well-being of the dogs in your care throughout the year is paramount. When dog parents leave their dogs with hosts, they have many apprehensions in their mind. Every dog has a different personality and every parent worries that their host may not be able to keep the dog like they would. It’s a fair fear, but it’s our duty as hosts to prove them wrong. And the only way to do that is to be aware about various requirements dogs may have during different seasons or life stages, health conditions, etc.
In this blog, let’s talk about unique challenges that come with different seasons and require specific care routines. This Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) outlines the essential tips for taking care of dogs during summers, winters, and the rainy season.
By following these guidelines, you can provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable environment for your doggo guests.
Summer Care Tips
Summers can be particularly harsh on dogs due to the high temperatures and risk of heat-related illnesses. In India, especially in the northern parts, the temperature has started crossing 50 degrees. It’s hard to survive without air conditioning. Now imagine how difficult it must be for dogs who can’t even tell us that they are feeling hot. So, we need to understand their behaviour and activity to know what exactly it is that we need to do for them.
Here are some tips that may help you take better care of guest doggos during summers.
Hydration:
Ensure constant access to fresh, cool water. If possible, keep multiple water bowls in the house.
If the dog isn’t big on drinking water, add it to their food or give them some chicken broth or daal (without any spices) with their regular food. Adding buttermilk to their diet is also a great way to keep them hydrated. 2. Cool Environment:
Keep the dogs indoors during peak heat hours (10 AM - 4 PM).
Use fans, air conditioners, or cooling mats to maintain a comfortable temperature.
Provide shaded outdoor areas for short play sessions.
Change their walking times to early morning and late evening hours.
3. Avoid Hot Surfaces:
Check the pavement temperature to prevent paw burns. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. You can also use boots to prevent burnt paws.
4. Grooming:
Regular brushing to remove excess fur and prevent matting.
5. Signs of Heatstroke:
Watch for excessive panting, drooling, lethargy, and vomiting.
If you suspect heatstroke, move the dog to a cooler area, offer water, and contact a veterinarian immediately. Don’t stress a dog that’s already stressed out due to the heat by trying too many things.
Winter Care Tips
Winter can be challenging for dogs, especially those not accustomed to cold weather. Here’s how to keep them warm and healthy during the chilly months:
Warm Shelter:
Keep dogs indoors as much as possible.
Provide warm bedding. Keep the heaters on whenever required but don’t leave any dogs alone in the house with the heat appliances on.
2. Outdoor Time:
Take them outside during warmer parts of the day.
Use dog sweaters or coats for short-haired breeds, dogs with low body fat, puppies and old dogs.
3. Nutrition:
Increase food intake slightly if the dog is more active outdoors to maintain energy levels.
Ensure they have access to fresh water at all times.
Grooming:
Regular brushing to maintain a healthy coat.
Avoid bathing as they are already in a new environment and may feel uncomfortable with it.
Rainy Season Care Tips
The rainy season brings its own set of challenges, including dampness, mud, and the risk of infections. Here’s how to care for dogs during this time:
Dry Shelter:
Ensure the living area is dry and free from leaks.
Provide dry bedding and replace it regularly to avoid dampness.
2. Outdoor Safety:
Supervise outdoor time to prevent the dog from getting too wet or muddy. If they do end up getting wet or muddy, give them a dry bath if it’s cold. Or completely dry them off immediately after bathing. Ensure that the water temperature is warm (not hot).
Use raincoats and umbrellas to keep them as dry as possible.
3. Paw and Coat Care:
Clean and dry paws thoroughly after walks to prevent fungal infections.
Regularly check for ticks and fleas, as they are more prevalent during the rainy season.
4. Indoor Activities:
Increase indoor play and mental stimulation to keep them active.
Use interactive toys and games to prevent boredom.
By following these seasonal care tips, you can provide a safe and comfortable environment for the dogs in your care, regardless of the weather.
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