As a dog parent, you need to invest in proper dog skin care. After all, pet owners around the world spent $4.13 billion on skin-care and coat-care products in 2022 alone. Skin care becomes a necessity in Arizona’s harsh and dusty climate. If your canine likes hiking the trails and playing at the park, they may face skin irritation & dryness. We at Acoma Animal Clinic have seen many Tucson pets come in with skin issues that could have been prevented with the right care.
Want to learn some quick and practical dog skin care tips this summer? Worried that your dog has something that eerily looks like a bald spot… and you don’t know what to do? You have come to the right place. Let’s share 6 tried-and-trusted skin care tips for wonderful canines.
Always Keep Your Dog Hydrated
Many dog skin conditions emerge from dehydration. Summer heat drains moisture from the body of your dog very quickly. That’s why you should make sure that fresh, cool water is there for your dog at all times. Use portable water bowls to keep your puppy hydrated on walks.
Use Dog-Safe Sunscreen on Sensitive Areas
Did you know that your dog needs sunscreen as well? An oft-neglected dog skin care fact is that dogs can also get sunburned. Certain body parts on a dog’s body have thin fur, such as their nose, ears, belly, and around their eyes. You should get a pet-safe sunscreen (never use your sunscreen on your dog) and keep reapplying it every few hours if your dog is outside.
Brush Your Dog’s Skin Regularly
Dust from the environment, pollen from trees, and dead hair all build up on your dog’s skin during summer. That’s why an experienced groomer or you at home should use the right brushes and combs to give your dog’s coat a deep clean without stripping away natural oils. Regular brushing prevents matting, reduces shedding, and helps your dog’s skin breathe.
Use a Dog Skin Moisturizer on the Animal
The dry climate in Arizona can strip your dog’s skin of natural oils. It leads to flaking, and your canine can get itchy. You should bathe your dog every 4 to 6 weeks with a gentle, moisturizing shampoo designed for their coat type and species. Don’t bathe too often, or you’ll dry out their skin even more. This bathing ritual is especially helpful if your canine has sensitive skin.
Check for Ticks, Fleas, & Dog Skin Allergies
Tucson’s warm weather can turn your animal’s precious skin into a breeding ground for ticks & fleas. They may even develop cysts if you’re too careless! That’s why, after every outdoor adventure, thoroughly check your dog’s fur, especially around the ears, paws, belly, and between the toes. A skilled pet groomer can spot concealed parasites early.
Detecting a parasite early will prevent itching, hair loss, & disease. Also, your dog won’t accidentally spread these germs to other pets or people living in the house.
Limit Midday Outdoor Activity During Peak Heat
The hottest part of the day is between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon. That’s why you should walk your dog early in the morning or later in the evening when the air is cooler. Hot pavement in Arizona can burn your dog’s paw pads, so you should check how hot the ground is by putting your hand first (as in the image). If you cannot hold your hand there for 5 seconds, it means it’s too hot for your dog’s paws.
When You Need Professional Dog Skin Care Help
In some situations, you can’t bank on home care alone; you have to go to an animal clinic in your city to ensure your dog’s well-being if they show these signs:
- Excessive scratching, licking, or biting at their skin
- Red, inflamed, or oozing patches
- Sudden hair loss or bald spots
- Foul odor coming from their skin or coat
- Behavioral changes, lethargy, or loss of appetite
If your dog seems itchy, has a dull or matted coat, or you notice skin irritation, it may be time to schedule a wellness visit. Contact us right now for proper dog skin care!
