Wet weather safety for your dog
Every season brings about unique challenges for pet owners. As a dog parent, there are several dangers to be aware of, and it’s important to do what you can to keep your pooch safe at all times. Living in the UK, wet weather can happen all year round. Make sure you’re informed in our latest guide.
Risks outdoors
Wet weather can be a challenge for dog owners, particularly those with pets that need one or more walks a day to burn energy and stretch their legs. If your dog doesn’t like going out in the rain, or you’re concerned about their wellbeing, there are a few ways to keep them safe, dry and comfortable.
Cars can be a hazard during dark and rainy days, so if your dog is prone to being spooked, running onto the road could be deadly. So, keep hold of their lead and invest in a reflective lead, harness or jacket to increase their visibility to drivers and other pedestrians. Other options, like an LED collar, are great for helping you spot your dog if they wander into the darkness.
Sticking to quieter streets also means your dog is less likely to be soaked through by cars driving quickly through puddles. Puddles can also hide sharp or dangerous objects, so be careful when your dog wanders through a deep puddle – avoid them completely where possible.
In the UK, where the weather is unpredictable, investing in a good raincoat for your dog is well worth it for days when it doesn’t stop raining. Your dog’s fur will be kept as dry as possible, saving them from getting cold and uncomfortable.
Keeping your dog comfortable at home
Whether you’ve been out for a walk or your dog has been in the garden, it’s a good idea to lay a towel down at your door so you have an easy and quick way to dry your pet’s paws and fur, keeping them clean and warm. This will keep their fur and skin in good condition and warm them up after being in the cold. If your dog comes home covered in dirt, don’t bathe them immediately. Dry them with a towel to warm them up gently before bathing them.
After walking, make sure to check your dog’s ears and between their toes; damp fur can lead to infections.
It’s also worth considering creating a sheltered area for your dog to use when they go out to the toilet in the garden, so on days when walks aren’t an option, they have a dry space outdoors to explore safely. Inside the house, make sure your dog has a warm, cosy bed to retreat to after a trip in the rain – especially on a cold day. Consider laying down extra blankets or a pillow to give them even more comfort. Don’t forget your dog needs stimulation, so if your walks are cut short by the weather, consider playing some short indoor games or providing them with dog toys to play with.
Keeping your pet’s water bowl filled with fresh water will stop them from drinking potentially dangerous water in puddles or on the ground when they go in the garden or on a walk. Anything from bacteria to motor oil might find its way into water on the ground, so ensuring your dog is well hydrated should prevent them from drinking rainwater.
Wet weather accessories
There are lots of accessories created for your dogs in wet weather, to make walking and grooming them easier and more effective. Consider adding paw wax or balm to prevent cracking and irritation from wet surfaces, and purchase a good-quality microfibre towel to leave by your front door. We offer a huge range of dog accessories to help keep your pooch dry, warm and happy.
Phil’s top tips:
- Never leave your dog outside in the rain. They can become ill if they’re left exposed to the cold and rain for too long, with pneumonia being a particular concern
- If your pet is starting to get bored after days of heavy rain, consider getting them some fun, stimulating toys to keep them busy and entertained
- Keep an eye on your pet’s paws during wet weather, particularly if it’s cold outside. Paws can become cracked and sore, and will need some extra attention to keep them clean and healthy.