Spring Cleaning for Pet Parents

Spring cleaning for your dog is just as important as it is for you and we want to help you both stay healthy and happy.

Spring Grooming

If you have a long coated dog it is vital to brush your dog’s fur to remove loose hair and prevent painful matting.  Certainly, all dogs will benefit from cleaning with a gentle dog shampoo to remove dirt and odors.  An often overlooked aspect of spring cleaning for pet parents is nail care.  Trimming your dog’s nails regularly is key to preventing them from becoming overgrown and causing pain and a changed gait.

Don’t overlook ears and eyes.  Gently clean your dog’s ears with a damp cloth or specialized ear cleaning wipe to remove wax and debris. Look for any redness or excessive dark colored build up.  These may indicate an infection needing to be examined by your vet. When cleaning your dog’s ear always be careful that you never insert anything into the ear canal.  Additionally, check your dog’s eyes for any discharge or redness.  If you suspect an irritation or infection seek veterinary care.

Lastly, spring is a good time to pay extra attention to your dog’s dental health. Brushing their teeth regularly with a dog-specific enzymatic toothpaste to prevent plaque buildup and gum disease is a good way to maintain a healthy mouth.  If you’re not able to fit this into your schedule, Dogtopia of Viera has you covered.  Our services include: Dog daycare, Overnight and long-term boarding, Spa services, Webcam access  and Full-Service Grooming

 

Home Spring Cleaning for Pet Parents

Spring is prime season for fleas and ticks. Be sure to check your pup’s fur carefully for any signs of these parasites.  Cleaning your dog’s bedding, blankets, dishes, and toys in hot water to get rid of any bacteria or parasites that may have gathered over the time.  Check your dog’s collar and leash and any other gear for signs of wear and tear. Also, replace tags if they are damaged to make sure your dog is safe during walks. Make sure any ID tags are up to date and are current information in case they get lost during outdoor spring adventures. Schedule a visit to the vet to check that your dog’s vaccinations are up to date and to discuss any preventative treatments, such as heartworm or flea and tick prevention.

Using appropriate flea and tick preventative as recommended by your veterinarian is key to good health. Some popular flea, tick and heartworm preventatives can be found here.  https://www.petmd.com/dog/vet-verified/best-flea-tick-medications-for-dogs

Exercise and mental stimulation

As the weather warms up, take advantage of the opportunity to spend more time outdoors with your dog. Cleaning is not the only important part of Spring.  Regular exercise and mental stimulation are key for your dog’s overall health and well-being.  Not able to spend enough exercise time with your pup?  Don’t worry Dogtopia of Viera has you covered.