Year-Round Tips for a Happy, Healthy Dog

Australian pet owners, especially in Melbourne, face extreme climate shifts from scorching summers to near-freezing winters, making year-round preparation essential for you and your pet. With changing weather, we must understand summer pet care and winter pet care, adapting pet routines to ensure our dogs thrive year-round.

We’ll be exploring how you can provide the best pet care in hot weather, cold weather, and everything in between, as well as looking at key considerations you should have, including regular health checkups and nutrition.

Summer Pet Care

As devoted pet lovers, keeping our furry friends cool during high temperatures is essential to protect them from heat-related conditions. In summer, adjust their exercise routine to prevent overheating—walk them during cooler times like early mornings or late evenings, and opt for shorter, gentler walks instead of long play sessions at the park. On scorching days, keep a close eye out for signs of heatstroke, such as excessive panting, drooling, or lethargy, to ensure they stay safe and comfortable.

Keep your dog cool and hydrated in hot weather by bringing a portable water bottle and bowl on outings. At home, always provide fresh water, treat them with ice cubes, and create a shaded outdoor spot for comfort. For extra relief, lay out a damp towel or cooling mat, or let them enjoy a sprinkler or shallow paddling pool.

Regular grooming is an essential part of summer pet care as it helps dogs regulate their temperature, especially if they have long or thick fur. While trimming your dog's coat shorter for summer is fine, avoid shaving them completely, as it can cause sunburn. If you’re not sure what the optimum length is, consult with a vet or a professional groomer for advice on your dog's breed. Finally, especially in warmer weather, fleas, ticks, and other parasites can pose a threat to your pet, so as part of effective pet care in hot weather, consider preventative measures.

Winter Pet Care

When the temperature drops, small dogs and those with thin coats need extra attention to stay warm and safe, which is why winter pet care is crucial. Whilst Melbourne rarely falls below freezing, dogs can often be affected by lower temperatures, and even if you aren’t planning a trip to the Snowy Mountains, making small changes to your pet care can make your dog more comfortable. When temperatures drop, ensure that your dog has a warm, dry place to sleep indoors. For breeds with short coats, seniors, and puppies, blankets can offer extra warmth. When going on outdoor excursions in cold temperatures, these dogs can also benefit from a doggy sweater or jacket if they can’t retain heat effectively.

Some pet owners may think letting their dog's coat grow out offers extra warmth, but a well-groomed coat provides better insulation against the cold. During extreme cold, limit outdoor time and always supervise your dog while outside. Stay alert for signs of hypothermia, such as shivering or reluctance to move, to ensure your furry friend stays safe and comfortable.

In cold weather where walks are difficult, consider taking shorter, more frequent walks during parts of the day that are warmer, and when outdoor time is limited, provide indoor activities and toys to keep your dog physically active and mentally engaged.

Year-Round Pet Care Considerations

Your dog's nutritional needs can vary with the seasons, so be sure to adjust their intake in warmer and colder weather. In summer, dogs might need extra calories to support higher activity levels and increased hydration needs, whereas in winter, they may require fewer calories if they are less active. However, you should always consult with your vet before making significant changes to your dog's diet. Just like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies too, so be on the lookout for allergies such as excessive scratching, licking, or sneezing. Regular grooming and wiping down your dog's paws after walks can help to minimise allergens.

Pet care needs vary with the seasons, and by staying in tune with your dog's needs, you can keep them happy, healthy, and comfortable year-round. Since every dog is unique, remember to schedule regular health checkups, especially for older dogs or those with health conditions where we recommend 6-monthly checkups.

At Evervet, our experienced and knowledgeable team can ensure peace of mind for you and your beloved pet, and ensure they stay in the best shape possible. Additionally, they can help answer any questions you might have surrounding summer pet care and winter pet care to keep your dog in the best shape. Get in touch with the Evervet team now.