5 Tips for Walking Dogs in the Rain
Daily exercise is an important part of keeping our furry friends happy and healthy, even when the rain starts pouring down. As a responsible dog parent, it's natural to question whether walking our dogs in the rain is safe and necessary.
Experts agree that we should keep up our dogs' exercise routine, rain or shine, but there are some guidelines to follow to ensure their safety and well-being in wet weather.
How to keep your dog dry outside
Just like us, our dogs can get uncomfortable and even sick if they get too wet. Consider investing in a doggy raincoat and boots to protect them from the weather and prevent them from getting soaked through, always remember to remove the raincoat as soon as you reach home in order to avoid overheating. However, not all dogs will appreciate wearing a raincoat, so make sure your dog is comfortable wearing it before you head out. Try building positive associations with the raincoat by making them wear it at home and feeding them treats.
Should dogs play in Puddles?
While it may be tempting to let your dog play in puddles, it's important to be cautious. Large and deep puddles can hide sharp objects that can injure your dog's paws, and they may also contain slugs and snails that could be carrying parasite larvae. Always keep an eye on your dog when they are near puddles and wipe their paws with diluted ACV afterwards.
Dry your dog thoroughly
After your rainy walk, make sure to dry your dog thoroughly to avoid any matting and prevent them from getting sick. Use a towel to remove excess water and consider using a super absorbent microfibre towel to speed up the drying process, you can also consider blow-drying on low heat mode from a distance as it thoroughly dries the skin hidden behind the fur. Remember, it’s not recommended to use human products and equipments on pets as they can cause skin damage and dryouts, so use it in limitation with caution. It’s essential to follow the grooming schedule during monsoon to prevent any bacterial growth and to ensure hygiene.
Don't forget the feet
Make sure to wipe your dog's paws after your walk and pay special attention to the fur between their toes and paw pads. It’s recommended to get the fur between paw pads trimmed to minimize the dirt build-up. Leaving them wet can lead to dermatitis and other health issues. Consider using dog boots to keep their paws warm and dry.
Stimulate your dog indoors
If the rain is particularly heavy, or your dog simply doesn't like wet weather, consider shortening the walk or replacing it with some indoor fun. Interactive games and puzzles can help stimulate your dog physically and mentally.
Remember, with extra care and attention, you can still keep your dog healthy and happy even on rainy days.
Can dogs get sick after walking in the rain?
Dogs can get sick when walking in the rain, but it's not because of the rain itself. Rather, it's because of the exposure to other potential risks such as cold temperatures, wind, and bacteria in standing water or puddles. Just like humans, dogs can catch a cold or develop respiratory infections when they are exposed to cold, wet weather for extended periods. It's essential to keep your dog dry and warm when walking in the rain by using a raincoat or towel to dry them off when you get back home. Additionally, ensure that your dog is up to date on their vaccination and keep them away from standing water to reduce the risk of infection.
