Consider:
Matting
Unfortunately, when a dog’s coat is left to grow long over winter, it usually comes at the cost of matting. But did you know that a dog with long, matted hair will be just as cold as if they were shaved? Mats hold moisture against the skin, which is not only cold but also creates an environment very susceptible to bacterial infections. Matting is also extremely uncomfortable for your dog as it causes them to be constantly itchy and irritated.
Skin
Regular baths and coat maintenance aid with the distribution of a dog’s natural oils. This helps to maintain the health of their skin and coat and prevent dry skin or dandruff.
Nails
Nail clipping is included for any bath or haircut service provided by your groomer. In the summer, regular grooming appointments are enough to keep the nails clipped and in good condition.
In winter months, however, many dogs are unable to grind their nails down naturally. Without regular grooming appointments, the nails are left to grow to excessive lengths. It is not uncommon for nails to curl and grow into the dog’s pad, or for the nail to grow out to the side, twisting the dog’s toe to the side whenever they put weight on it (view image below). As you can imagine, both scenarios are painful for your dog.
Pads
When dogs visit their groomers, they will always have their pads shaved. This is especially important in winter to prevent clumps of snow and road salt from becoming entangled in the hair between their pads, which can be painful and cause burning or irritation.
In conclusion, it is essential that regular grooming appointments are continued throughout the winter months. Many groomers recommend an appointment every 4 – 6 weeks, with regular brushing at home. With regular appointments, your groomer can maintain your dogs long winter coat, skin, nails, pads, and overall grooming health throughout the winter months.
This is the first and most important determinant in successfully adopting a rescue dog. The decision to adopt a dog should never be on impulse. Weeks or months of thought and discussion are vital to ensuring your entire family is prepared for the responsibility. For example, consider:
Consider personality
Once you have decided you are ready to adopt a dog, it is time to consider which dog would be the best fit for your family. Although it may be tempting to take home the cutest looking puppy in the shelter, it is very important to find a dog with a personality compatible to your lifestyle. Do you work full time and then spend your free time watching Netflix? Consider a mellow, adult dog instead of a high-energy puppy. The shelter staff will be familiar with many of the dogs personalities, so consider asking them which dogs would suit your lifestyle best.
Properly introduce your family members
This is especially important for families with young children. An addition of a new dog to the family will be exciting for your kids, and they will be tempted to play and cuddle the moment the dog is released from the crate. However, it is vital that all family members give the dog plenty of space and time to adjust to their new home. A scared dog is likely to find hugs or an invasion of personal space threatening and may become aggressive while trying to protect themselves. Allow the dog to cuddle or play on their terms, and make sure all initial interactions between your children and the dog are supervised.
Properly introduce your other pets
It is important to make sure that your rescue dog will fit in well with any other animals you have at home. The rescue staff and volunteers should have an idea if the dog gets along with other dogs or cats. If it doesn’t, it may not be the dog for you. However, even if the dog is very friendly towards other animals, it is important to properly introduce them:
Be patient
There are many reasons a dog could be in a shelter. They may have been rescued from an abusive home, been found as a stray, or forfeited by a family who has no time for them. Regardless of the situation, the dog is likely to be scared and stressed. He/ she might take a while to warm up to you, and even older dogs might not have received proper training – which can often be frustrating. Just remember that with positive reinforcement, patience, and time, your new rescue dog will grow to be a great companion.
]]>Okanagan summers are HOT. With temperatures regularly exceeding 30°C, many of us are well aware of the risks of heat stroke in humans. But did you know that your dog is susceptible to heat stroke as well? Heat stroke in dogs has the potential to be fatal, so it is essential to be able to recognize the symptoms.
5 Signs of Heat Stroke in Dogs
Panting is a common way dogs cool themselves down. However, if they seem to be panting or drooling excessively very early in their walk, or they continue to pant for long after they have escaped the heat, it may indicate heat stroke.
There are various reasons a dog might experience vomiting or diarrhea. Heat stroke may be the cause if the dog has recently been exposed to high temperatures, such as a hot vehicle or a walk in the sun.
A lethargic dog will appear unusually calm and dazed. He/she may be sleeping more than usual, and not get excited when you grab their favorite toy or treat. They could also experience a loss of appetite.
Your dog may be shaking as if they are scared or cold. Seizures are also a sign of heat stroke, where your dog might fall on its side and become stiff, with their muscles twitching or jerking.
Your dog may become unable to walk or stand, appearing to be dizzy and falling over.
What can you do if you think your dog has heat stroke?
How To Lower The Risk Of Heat Stroke
How do you know which one will best fit for you and your family?