Get Your Dog Ready to Spring into Summer

Are you anxious for warmth and sunshine as we shut the door on Old Man Winter? Many of us pay extra attention to our appearance and grooming habits as we get ready for summer, but make sure to think of your dog's needs too. You wouldn't head off to the first day at the beach without sunscreen and a floppy hat, so don't toss your pup into the dog days of summer before tackling certain tasks either.

Stretch Properly Before Exercising

If you've been fairly sedentary for several months, your dog might have been a couch potato as well. The nicer weather might tempt us to get out there and hit the ground running, but just as we should start gradually to help prevent injury to our own bodies, your dog's first walk of the season shouldn't be a long one either.

Grab your sneakers and leash and start with shorter jaunts at a fairly slow pace and increase the distance and speed a little at a time over a period of days and weeks. This is especially important if you have a dog with physical ailments such as joint issues or heart problems. My own Molly has severe hip dysplasia that requires monitoring when we head for the hills. It you plan on more than short walks with your dog, it's probably wise to check with your vet before any marathon workouts.

Step Out Smartly With a Mani-Pedi

While getting your own tootsies ready for summer's sexy sandals, take the time to check your canine buddy's paws and nails. Proper foot-care for your pet is important throughout the year, but if you've been neglectful, don't go out strutting the sidewalk until you know they're in good shape.

You don't have to go for matching nail polish and bling (but I suppose you could), but at least make sure your dog's nails are trimmed properly. Dogs with lighter colored nails are generally easier to trim because you can see where the quick starts when looking at the more transparent nail. If you don't trust yourself not to cut them too short, mention it to your vet or groomer and watch while they do the deed.

Pay attention to the pads of the feet too. Tender pads are easily injured while hiking through wooded areas, and even long walks on the beach can be damaging. My German Shepherd Dog, Chesty, would run after a ball on the beach for hours if you'd let him. Even after I put the toy in my purse, he didn't want to give up and ended up with pads that were severely worn and bloody.

Like children, they don't always know when to stop, so you have to be the parent to keep your four-legged family safe too.

More from Marie Anne:

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Is the Chow the Only Breed of Dog With a Black Tongue?

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