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Caring for Your Dog During Summer: 8 Tips and Tricks

Caring for Your Dog During Summer: 8 Tips and Tricks

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Warm weather means more time spent outdoors, and if you have a dog, you know they will want to join you in your adventures. Taking care of yourself during the summer is important, but you should also be ensuring the safety of your companion.

1. Your dog should have a summertime grooming routine

Grooming isn’t just for looks. It can help keep your dog healthy, especially when it is hot outside. Depending on the breed, their grooming schedule will look different, but here are some things to keep in mind.

  • Brushing: This should be done regularly, especially for double-coated breeds. It helps remove dead skin to keep them cool and lets you check for any hidden issues. Their hair can mat and trap moisture too, which may cause skin irritation.
  • Bathing: Although bathing your dog too often can cause coat damage, you will likely find yourself giving them baths more in the summer. This is typically okay because they will have more dirt, mud, and foreign debris (like burrs) to get rid of.
  • Flea, tick, and parasite prevention: This should be a regular part of your dog’s care, especially in the summer. These pests are more active when it is warm, so be careful to never miss a dose.
  • Haircuts: Not all dogs need summertime trims, but long-haired and double-coated breeds should have them. Do not shave your dog in the summer unless your professional groomer says it is okay. Shaving them can cause loss of temperature regulation and heat stroke.

2. Offer plenty of shade and cooling options

Your furry friend needs a place to escape the heat, whether you’re at home or out and about. If they spend time outside, make sure there’s a shady spot where they can rest. Indoors, a fan or air conditioning works wonders.

Want to help your pup chill out even more? Try these simple ideas:

  • A cooling mat for them to lie on
  • A shallow kiddie pool for a quick splash (keep it in the shade)
  • Frozen treats made from dog-safe ingredients like blueberries or low-sodium broth

These little touches go a long way toward keeping your dog comfortable on the hottest days.

3. Keep your dog hydrated

Water is your dog’s best friend when temperatures climb. Dogs cool themselves down by panting, and that uses up a lot of moisture, so they need to drink more in the heat. Always keep a clean bowl of fresh, cool water within reach, both inside and outside.

When you head out for a walk or adventure, bring water along. A collapsible bowl makes it easy to offer your dog a drink every few minutes. You can even add a couple of ice cubes to keep things cool. Just skip the icy-cold water straight from the freezer if they are hot, since a sudden chill can be a shock to their system.

4. Time your walks for the cooler hours

Midday heat is no fun for anyone, especially your dog. When the afternoon sun is at its strongest, it’s best to keep walks short or save them for another time. Early morning and evening are your sweet spots, when the air is cooler and the ground isn’t scorching.

5. Take care of your dog’s paws

Speaking of the ground, hot pavement can burn your dog’s paws before you even realize it. Here’s an easy test: press the back of your hand to the sidewalk for about five to seven seconds. If it’s too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws. When in doubt, stick to grassy areas or shaded paths.

6. Watch for signs of overheating

Dogs can’t always tell when they’ve had too much heat, so it’s up to us to keep an eye on them. Overheating and heat stroke are serious health concerns, and knowing the warning signs can make all the difference. Some breeds (like flat-faced dogs), senior dogs, and young puppies have a harder time cooling down, so watch them especially closely.

Keep an eye out for these signs:

  • Heavy panting or drooling
  • Bright red or bluish gums
  • Lethargy or weakness
  • Loss of coordination or confusion
  • Vomiting or diarrhea
  • Shaking or trembling

If you notice any of these, move your dog to a cool spot right away, offer small sips of water, and call your vet immediately. Quick action can truly save a life.

7. Never leave your dog in a hot car

This one is simple but so important: never leave your dog alone in a parked car, not even for a minute. The temperature inside can climb to dangerous levels in no time, and a quick errand can turn into an emergency. If your dog can’t come inside with you, it’s safer to leave them at home where they can stay cool.

8. Be careful with swimming and outdoor play

A splash in the water can be a wonderful way for your dog to cool off, but a little caution goes a long way. If your pup loves to swim, make sure they always have a safe, easy way to get out of the water. Afterward, give them a quick rinse to wash off any dirt or bacteria, and check their ears to help prevent infections.

Need safe summer boarding for your dog?

At Willow Creek Kennels, we know that summer care of dogs is vital for their health and happiness. That’s why we offer cooled indoor shelter, plenty of fresh water, and shade to keep your pup comfortable.

If you are going away and looking for the best boarding experience for your furry friend, you can call us at 806-383-6155 or stop by in person at 4339 St Francis Ave, Amarillo, TX 79108 to see our facilities.

Dog Training 101: Tips for a Well-Behaved Pup

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medium sized white dog with brown spots and ears being trained to lay down on green grass by a woman in blue jeans and a pink shirt

Our motto at Willow Creek Kennels is “If you don’t train ’em, don’t blame ’em.” and for good reason! While most dogs aren’t naturally troublemakers, many need some form of training to become their best selves. It helps build a bond between humans and animals and gives dogs a sense of confidence. If you’ve never considered training for your dog, these FAQs can help answer some of your questions!

Why should I sign my dog up for training?

There are a lot of reasons why training your pup is a good idea, not just the connection it can foster between you. Here is a short list of our favorites.

  1. It makes dogs happy! Training provides your pet with an outlet for energy and an engaging form of play that includes humans, not just chewing on a toy.
  2. Dogs love to please. Even dogs that aren’t working breeds like to please their owners and can enjoy the feeling of a job well done.
  3. It can help them be more confident. Some dogs get nervous when they are around other dogs or unfamiliar people. Basic training can help make them more comfortable in these situations.

When should dog training start?

There really is no age limit for when you start your dog in training, as long as they aren’t too young to socialize with other dogs and are in good health. That being said, younger dogs usually pick up on training faster.

What kind of training do you offer?

Our team focuses on basic obedience rather than complicated training. Commands your dog can learn include sit/stay, come, and lie down. They can learn how to walk on a leash and not run through open doors or gates. We can also do some basic agility as part of confidence-building in our Saturday follow-up classes.

Why is individual training usually the best option?

Individual training is ideal for dogs that may be shy, easily distracted, have specific behavioral challenges, or are new to training in general. One-on-one sessions provide personalized attention and can be tailored to your dog’s unique needs. Because of this, we offer individual training along with our boarding services. We even provide demo training to make sure it is a good fit for your dog.

Group training can be a good option for dogs that need socialization or enjoy a more dynamic environment. We can provide group training for refreshers and to help acclimate dogs to other pets and people in a safe, controlled environment.

How long does training usually last?

The length of training depends on your dog’s age, temperament, and how quickly they pick up new skills. Our Doggy Do Right training program lasts two weeks and includes boarding.

How do I reinforce training at home?

Training isn’t just about the sessions themselves; it’s an ongoing process. Even after your dog has learned the basics, reinforcing those skills regularly will help them stick. Think of it as a lifelong journey rather than a one-time event. By keeping up with their basic commands, you can help your dog be at their best, even at home.

Looking for dog training in Amarillo, TX?

Ready to book your pup’s training? You can call us at 806-383-6155 or stop by in person at 4339 St Francis Ave, Amarillo, TX 79108 to see our facilities.

The Benefits of Dog Boarding For the Holidays

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cute brown and black chihuahua laying on a red and green Christmas tree skirt

The holidays are here, which for most of us means shopping, parties, and time spent with family. Taking trips to visit family is a highlight for a lot of people, but as a pet owner, I know how hard it can be to leave our animals behind. But just because we can’t take them everywhere doesn’t mean our dogs have to worry, too. Here are some of the benefits of boarding your dog for the holidays.

A cure for boredom

We all know how sad (or even destructive) dogs can get when they are bored. It can be hard for them when you are away, even when they are in their own home. You can have family or friends watch them, but it isn’t the same as having you home.

One of the best things about boarding your dog is that they can be distracted and stay entertained, while you can avoid losing your shoes or couch. We make sure every dog in our care has a comfortable place to sleep, ample play, and walk time.

Lots of exercise

Because we train dogs, we know how important routine and activity are for their mental and physical health. This is why we offer a variety of play add-ons, including grassy yards for fetch and running, one-on-one time, perimeter walks, and custom routines to keep your dog happy and active.

Fun socialization

We treat your dogs just like ours, so we wouldn’t want them to feel lonely. We make sure to pet and talk to every animal in our care. We even chart how much they eat and drink throughout the day so we know they are comfortable while boarding.

Expert care and medication administration

For dogs with health conditions, we make sure that they are medicated on time, every time. Although we will feed dogs without input to ensure they are fed, we prefer that you provide our team with a feeding schedule, as well as your dog’s preferred food. This helps to ensure your pet’s health, but also their sense of routine. Check out our FAQ for more information.

Peace of mind for you

With everything that dog boarding can offer, it helps give peace of mind to pet owners who are away for the holidays. We are always happy to provide any information before our pet parents leave and give updates during boarding, too, so you won’t have to worry about your dog while you’re gone.

Quick tips for boarding your dog

Now that you know a little more about how we perform our boarding services, I’d like to offer a few tips to help you and your dog have a fun and happy holiday.

1. Find out if a kennel or a dog sitter is your best option

Don’t be afraid to do a little research and ask questions before making your decision. For example, dog sitters may be able to provide more one-on-one time, but they are often more expensive than a boarding facility.

2. Look for the best facility for your needs

Maybe you won’t be gone more than a couple of days, so your dog won’t need extra playtime in a large area. Perhaps you need grooming services in addition to boarding. Spend some time looking into each facility and what they offer to be sure you’re getting what you and your pet need.

3. Prepare your dog for their stay

Take the time to prepare everything your dog will need well before their stay. This will help you ensure that they have everything they need and prevent you from getting anxious while away. Here’s a basic list of things I would suggest to help you get started.

  • Their dog food (if you’d like)
  • Comfort items (their favorite toys or something to chew on)
  • A crate and leash for easy drop off
  • Medications and instructions
  • Daily routine information, especially when selecting play add-ons
  • A list of any medical conditions, allergies, and food intolerances
  • Your dog’s medical records and vaccination history (This is mandatory and can be emailed to us at info@amarillodogboarding.com.)

4. Don’t leave your dog sad

You might be sad to leave your dog in boarding for the holidays, but make sure to drop them off in a positive mood. They can feel your sadness and anxiety, and will take those emotions with them into their stay.

Dog boarding in Amarillo, TX

If you need to board your dog for the holidays, we’re here all season long! Give us a call at 806-383-6155 or stop by in person at 4339 St Francis Ave, Amarillo, TX 79108 to see our facilities.