Change of season… what to look for!

With warmer weather upon us, it is important to be on the lookout for any potential issues with your dog and prevent them from happening.  

Some of these things are individualised depending on the daily activity, environment and breed of your dog. None the less, they’re all important to be aware of.

Grass seed season

Ensure you are checking your dog’s paws and ears regularly, especially after taking them out for play, swim or walk. Grass seeds commonly embed in vulnerable places (paws and ears) and become a very painful injury for your dog. Keeping paws and ears groomed short during these warmer months will not only reduce the risk of a pesky seed burying itself but will make it easier for you to spot.

Ear infections

With many dogs enjoying a dip at the beach and at local water spots, it’s important to be on the look out for ear infections, especially for our floppy eared friends. Warm humid weather paired with warm moist ears can be a message that spells ‘vet visit’. Be on the look out for your canine friend pawing and itching their ears and also shaking their head which can be another common sign that something is going on.

Double coated dogs

Double coated dogs are at a high risk of hot spots and skin irritations in the warmer months. Examples of double coated dogs are Huskies, Collies, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Australian Cattle Dogs, Corgis and Beagles. It is important that their undercoat is groomed out very well and that they are dried off after swimming.

Tick prevention

With some dogs venturing out and about in fun places to enjoy the weather…it might be worth having a chat to your vet to ensure your pet has an appropriate amount of coverage for potential tick endemic areas. As no tick prevention provides 100% coverage, it’s important to have a ‘hands on’ approach and make sure you are giving your pet the once over after visiting tick affected regions.

As always, if you have any concerns our friendly Community Vet Clinic team are always ready to help.