There’s nothing better than sunny summer days! Whether you head to the lake, spend time by the pool, or just enjoy long walks around your neighborhood, you should be aware of skin care concerns that may pop up for your dog over the warmer months.
Pet skin health plays a big role in their overall happiness, and some extra issues may pop up while you’re enjoying all that summer has to offer. It’s best to start the summer off with a fresh groom so that your dog’s coat and skin are in good condition, so be sure to book that appointment at your groomer.
Supporting Your Pet’s Skin Health This Summer
It’s natural for your dog to lick and scratch from time to time, but what do you need to watch for when it comes to their skin health? Skincare for your pet starts with monitoring for any extra licking or itching and doing a quick scan to check for redness, hot spots, or parasite bites.
Here are some of the top summer concerns that can affect your pet’s skin health:
- Swimmer’s itch – This is an itchy rash caused by parasites that live in the water. These parasites can live within a dog’s body and reproduce, making them a serious concern for your pet. To avoid getting swimmer’s itch, dry your dog off with a dry towel as soon as they exit the water and avoid murky areas where there are a lot of weeds.
- Allergies – If you notice a red rash or hives, your dog may be suffering from summer allergies to things like grass or pollen. Skin treatment for dogs with allergies can range from topical creams to oral antihistamines. Be sure to find something that offers them relief to avoid excessive licking or scratching that can lead to mats and hot spots.
- Heat – Did you know that dogs can suffer from heat rash? In particular, breeds with skin folds, like pugs, are especially vulnerable to heat rash, but it can also affect any dog that’s been out in the sun for too long. Even if your pup loves to lounge in the sun, make sure you help them find relief in the shade or cooler temperatures indoors.
- Matting – Mats occur more frequently in the summer due to dogs shedding their winter coat, being wet more often, or rolling around in the grass. Matting can be very detrimental to pet skin health since it can cause skin irritations and make it difficult to find parasites that might be causing pain and discomfort. Make sure you brush your dog frequently throughout the summer and keep those regular appointments with your dog groomer.
Quality Pet Care and Grooming
At Smoochie Pooch, we offer top grooming services, including skin treatments for dogs. From shed relief to skin hydration therapy, we can help your pet’s skin be the best it can be. With multiple locations, we’re ready to provide top-notch grooming and skin care services to dogs of all breeds. To find out more about our dog grooming services, contact us!
