1. Limit Time Outdoors

Winter can be hard on dogs, just like it's hard on people. When temperatures drop, keep your dog indoors. If your dog goes out for a little fun, keep track of how much time your dog spends outside, and bring your dog in after a short period of time. Some dogs need to stay warm by wearing dog sweaters and booties. Check with your pet's vet to see if these things could help your dog. 

2. Keep Up With Exercise

It's hard to keep your dog physically fit when the weather is cold and unpleasant. If you don't want to take your dog outside, exercise your dog indoors. Take your dog to indoor facilities where dogs are able to walk, and play with your dog inside your home. If your dog starts to gain weight, talk to your dog's veterinarian about ways to keep your dog moving. 

3. Catch Up on Vaccines

Winter is the perfect time to catch up on vaccines! Make your dog's appointment with the veterinarian. If your pet is more than one year old, he or she will likely only need boosters about once annually. Talk to your pet's vet if you're not sure what shots your pet needs, or when. 

4. See to Your Dog's Dental Needs

While you're at the vet, have your dog's teeth cleaned. Most dogs need to have their teeth professionally cleaned at least once per year. This is an excellent way to prevent your dog from losing teeth or suffering from a painful gum condition. 

5. Groom Your Dog Properly

Dogs with a lot of hair usually need it cut off in summer, only to have it grow back in winter. If your dog has a naturally long, full coat, talk to your dog's groomer to find out what style of cut is best for your dog at this time of year.

Looking for a Place for You and Your Dog? Come to Us

At Taluswood Apartments, we love dogs. We want to meet yours! If you're looking for apartments in Mountlake Terrance, WA, contact us today to see what units we have available. 

The post 5 Winter Wellness Tips for Dogs appeared first on Taluswood Apartments Blog.

5 Simple Dog Walking Tips

1. Try a Front Clip Harness

If you’ve noticed that your dog likes to pull on their leash in excitement, using a front clip harness can help to eliminate the unwanted behavior. With this simple leash direction change, you stay in control and your dog still gets out for some fun.

2. Let Them Sniff

While it may be a bit tedious after a while, stopping to let your dog sniff is a super important part of your walks. In fact, sniffing is directly related to positive brain stimulation that keeps your pet happy and stress-free.

3. Skip the Retractable Leash

Although they have a certain appeal, retractable leashes actually pose quite a few safety hazards for yourself, your pup and other people on the trails. The long length makes it difficult to control your dog and under the right amount of pressure, the leash can snap.

4. Clean Up After Your Dog

Picking up after your pet is not only an important part of being a good neighbor but it helps to prevent health issues for other dogs and people. Invest in a handy poop bag carrier that you can clip on your leash to ensure you never leave home without a bag and be sure to dispose of all bags properly.

5. Bring Water

If you and your dog will be out walking for more than 30 minutes, bringing along water to help keep them hydrated is a good idea. Because they have a more difficult time regulating their body temperature than we do, stopping for a drink is an easy way to help them cool down.

Explore the Great Outdoors With Your Dog

For more information about our pet-friendly community or to take a look at the available floor plans at our apartments in Mountlake Terrace, visit the team at Taluswood Apartments today.

The post Dog Walking Tips appeared first on Taluswood Apartments Blog.