Summer is a great time to enjoy the backyard, or take our pets with us for a variety of exciting excursions, from camping and hiking, to boating and swimming. You may take extra steps to keep your skin protected when the weather gets hot, like sunscreen, bug spray, or protective clothing, but our pets have some skincare needs too. Summer is a prime allergy season and bugs can easily make their way inside to the air conditioning. We’ve put together some summer skincare tips to help out!
Mosquitoes, Bugs, and Parasites, Oh My!
Ticks, fleas, mosquitoes, flies, gnats, and other insects are out in full swing during the summer months. If you are getting bit and itching, chances are your pet is too. Talk to your veterinarian about how you can keep your dog or cat protected from bites. There are many products available such as collars, topicals, sprays, shampoos, and dips. Try these tips for keeping critters away.
Seasonal Allergies
Just like us, dogs and cats can develop allergies and sensitivities to things in the environment like pollens, molds, grasses, trees, or bites from fleas or bugs. These allergens are very common during the summer. Allergies cause excessive scratching, biting, licking chewing, rubbing, sneezing, foot chewing and redness of the skin. If you notice changes in the skin or your pet is constantly itching, contact your veterinarian for treatment options and to determine the cause. You may also ask your veterinarian about whether your pet would benefit from an antihistamine or other medication.
Grooming & Bathing
If your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, you may need to up the bath time, especially if they like swimming. Bathing helps physically remove dirt, debris, allergens, and parasites from your dog or cats’ haircoat. You can also try using waterless shampoo to help reduce time in the tub. Aside from controlling shedding and making them look good, regular brushing also helps encourage blood circulation and distributes natural oils to help moisturize the skin. Check out the new Furbliss grooming brush.
Protect Paw Pads
Have you ever walked barefoot outside in the summer? HOT! Pavement, sidewalks, sand, and natural surfaces heat up quickly from the sun and can cause burns when dogs touch them. Try checking the temperature of the pavement before going for a walk. If it’s too hot for your hand, then it’s too hot for paws. You can also try walking your dog in the morning or at night when it’s cooler outside. Apply a thin layer of BioBalm on all four paws before any outdoor activities or walks.
VetRxDirect offers a variety of products to meet your pet’s skincare needs in every season. What is your favorite summer activity with your pet?