Spring has officially arrived and so has the rainy, damp, and often fluctuating temperatures. Pet parents are sometimes taken by surprise when the weather changes while on a routine walk. For this reason, it is a great idea to check the dog raincoats you have and choose the right one before embarking on your walk.

Dogs are just as susceptible to the cold and flu season as their human companions are. Keeping them dry and warm while walking outside is key to prevention.  Besides the winter dog coat, havening a dog raincoat that will keep your pooch dry should also be in your dog’s wardrobe.

It is true that most dog breeds do have a protective layer of fur designed to keep them dry in rainy weather; however, couple the rain with cold damp temperatures and a runny nose and fever are sure to follow.  Treating the common cold in dogs is not unlike treating a cold for their pet parents. It needs to run its course as well as possibly giving antibiotics prescribed by your vet.

Canine influenza is a different story. Like the flu in humans, it is viral and bacterial spread. If your dogs’ immune system is weakened by prolonged exposure to fluctuating weather, and they are boarded or come in contact with dogs showing systems of the flu, the virus will spread quickly. Although there is a canine flu vaccine available, it is still in its infancy stage.

Before you board your dog or allow the neighborhood dog walker take your pet for walk make sure the dogs that will be in close contact with your dog are healthy and symptom free. If your dog is exhibiting flu like symptoms the first thing you should do is contact your vet right away. The last thing you should do is board your dog exposing other pets to canine influenza.

Canine influenza if left untreated is deadly for dogs. This best preventative is being prepared by keeping your dog warm and dry with an appropriate dog raincoat, while boarding ensure the pets are healthy, and contact your vet asking about the canine influenza vaccine.

by Remarkable Dogs