Rains can be a tricky time for dog owners, who want to make sure their pup is getting the proper care and attention. So, how to take care of dogs in the rainy season?
Luckily, there are plenty of steps you can take to ensure your pooch stays safe, comfortable, and happy during this soggy season.
From stocking up on gear to providing extra love and affection, taking care of your pup in the wet months doesn’t have to be a chore!
With just a few adjustments to your routine, you’ll be ready to beat the rainy day blues!
How do dogs behave during rain?
Dogs can behave differently when it’s raining. From trembling and barking to seeking out a cozy spot, these five signs of response to the rain in dogs are sure to leave you with no doubt that your pup is weather-sensitive!
1. Barking:
Dogs often bark more than usual when it rains. This could be due to the fact that the rain itself makes noise, and this sound may trigger canine curiosity or fear.
Additionally, your dog’s barking may be caused by the lightning flashes and thunder associated with storms.
2. Seeking Shelter:
When it starts to rain, many dogs will look for a safe spot to hide away from the wetness. This is especially true if they haven’t been properly conditioned to enjoy rainy days.
3. Trembling:
Rain can be a fearful experience for some dogs and they may show signs of anxiety and distress, such as trembling or shaking.
This is their body’s natural response to fear and you should try to provide comfort until the storm passes.
4. Refusing Outdoor Walks:
Dogs that don’t like the rain may refuse to go outdoors altogether when it starts pouring. This is probably due to their understanding that walks in the rain are unpleasant experiences, so they will do whatever they can to avoid them!
5. Sneezing:
Some dogs may sneeze more than usual when exposed to wet weather conditions, which could be due to their sensitive noses.
If your pup starts sneezing more than usual when it rains, you may want to consider getting them checked out by a vet just in case.
How to take care of dogs in the rainy season
Dogs are sensitive to extreme weather conditions and can get sick quite easily in a wet environment due to their fur coats not being able to absorb moisture.
Here are a few ways to make sure your dog stays safe during the rainy season.
1. Keep an eye on the weather:
The rainy season can bring some nasty surprises, so it’s important to keep a close watch on the forecast.
Make sure your pup has plenty of dry, sheltered places to retreat when unexpected showers come rolling in.
2. Stick to shorter walks:
If you take your dog out for regular strolls during summer, consider shortening them during the wet season – but don’t skimp too much!
Keeping up with exercise is still important even if it means having quick stops between puddles or finding some covered spots along the way.
3. Protect those paws:
Wet and muddy conditions mean that dogs are more prone to paw injury and infection — especially if they’re starting to get a bit older.
Invest in some waterproof boots or paw wax to protect their paws against the elements and make sure they stay healthy.
4. Gear up:
Rainy days call for the right gear! Invest in a raincoat or waterproof jacket, as well as a hooded umbrella to keep your pup dry and comfortable.
You can also invest in thunder jackets, which provide a source of comfort and security to dogs during thunderstorms.
5. Wash them regularly:
Rainy weather can mean that your pup gets particularly mucky!
Make sure you are washing them off after every walk, even if it’s just a quick rinse-off with a hose or bucket of warm water.
6. Look out for hypothermia and mud fever:
Dogs can be just as prone to developing hypothermia in the wet season as they are in winter, so keep an eye on their body temperature and ensure they stay warm and dry when possible.
If you think your pup is getting cold, find someplace safe and cozy to warm them up.
Wet weather can lead to skin irritations such as mud fever, which is caused by an infection of the hair follicles or sweat glands that have become irritated by long periods of moisture on the skin.
Keep a close eye on their coat and visit the vet if you notice any redness or scaling around the edges of their feet.
7. Play Indoor games:
Just like humans, dogs can get frustrated and bored when confined indoors for too long.
Make sure they have plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained while they wait out the rain-filled days.
There are plenty of fun games you can play indoors with your pup on rainy days.
Try some scent-tracking activities or get creative and make a homemade agility course for them to navigate around in the living room.
8. Grooming:
Long-haired dogs can get matted fur and soggy skin if not groomed regularly during the wet season, so make sure you give them a few extra minutes of care to keep their coats looking sleek and healthy.
9. Make sure they have plenty of shade:
The sun may be weaker in the rainy season, but it’s still important to protect your pup from too much exposure — especially when temperatures are high. Make sure there are plenty of shady spots around for them to rest when needed.
10. Boost their diet:
During wetter weather, your pup will need more energy to help them stay warm and fight off any nasty bugs that may try to take hold in their system – so make sure you’re feeding them good quality food with plenty of nutrients and vitamins.
Adding in some extra healthy treats can also be an effective way of giving your pup what they crave when it’s too wet to go out!
Conclusion
Keeping your dog happy and healthy during the wet season is all about being prepared!
With these tips on how to take care of dogs in the rainy season, you’ll be able to ensure that your pup stays content, comfortable, and safe.
And with a bit of luck, you’ll even get some sunny days in between storms when you can make the most of the great outdoors!
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings