Are you and your dog ready for summer?

For the past several weeks we have been focussing on our swimming pets but with summer just around the corner we thought we would turn our attention to the dogs!

Now that spring is finally in the air (said hopefully while looking out the window on a rainy 11° morning) we need to consider what affect this change in season has on our dogs.  Just as we change our habits and want to look our best for the summer we need to consider how our furry friends fare as well.

Those bitterly cold mornings and dark afternoons don't really lend themselves to enjoyable trips around the park and, whether or not we like to admit it, we probably didn't get the dogs out quite as much as we would have liked.  As spring and summer finally arrive we are naturally drawn to spending more time out of doors which means the dogs will be doing so too.

It may be really tempting to blow off the cobwebs by breaking out the boots and grabbing the lead to take Fido out on a 10 mile ramble over the dales.  Unless both of you have kept up a similar fitness routine through the winter, then that hike is probably not a great idea for either of you.  Just as we need to break slowly into a new regime our pooches are the same.  Even though their fitness and endurance will get up to speed a lot more quickly than yours, they still need breaking in gently. 

Once you have built up some endurance by all means get out and enjoy the countryside or local park (if in the city) for nice long stretches with your faithful companion.  Just a few other things to keep in mind while you are out and about to help keep your doggy in top condition... 

• Keep the flea and tick treatments and worming remedies up to date as it isn't just us coming out of hibernation!
• Make sure your dog has plenty of access to shade on bright and sunny days, wouldn't want them to overheat!
• Pack plenty of chilled water for both of you and take frequent breaks to keep hydrated!  

If you don't have access to a park or nearby countryside you can still enjoy more time out in the back garden playing fetch after a stroll around the neighbourhood.  Even though you are close to home it still pays to remember to take frequent breaks, rest in the shade and give your dog plenty of chilled water to keep cool.

Have a great summer and please feel free to comment below on any plans you have for you and your doggy!  Maddy, Cookie and I are off to the park shortly as the weather has finally turned!