Picture this: You’re walking your dog in the woods after work, it’s 6pm and the soft sunlight is still shining through the branches. Birds are happily chirping away, your favorite flowers are coming into bloom. Your dog is prancing around, tail wagging, no longer having to stomp through muddy terrain when a butterfly gingerly lands on their snout. And just like that the winter blues vanishes: spring is in the air!

While this idyllic scene may seem like a fairytale, the reality of spring can bring its own set of challenges for dog owners. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to help you and your four-legged friend make the most of the season.

  • Grooming

Goodbye winter fluff! As days are getting warmer your dog no longer needs their undercoat and will proceed to shedding it for 4-8 weeks. Daily brushing is important to avoid matting and improve blood circulation. It also allows for better air ventilation to the skin, allowing your dog to better adjust to rising temperatures.

Pro tip: leaving fluffs of dead hair outdoors can help birds build their nests!

  • Parasites

Tiny but mighty! If there is one thing dog owners dislike most about spring is the rise of these small critters: fleas, ticks, worms and lice. Although they are tiny in size, they can cause serious and lethal damage. That’s why it’s crucial to always thoroughly check your four legged friend after every walk. Remember that these types of parasites thrive in the undergrowth of forests, meadows and high grass. It’s essential to consistently treat your dog against them with veterinary approved treatments and medication.

Pro tip: you can also complement the veterinary treatment with homemade tick repellent using essential oils!

  • Leash Regulations in Switzerland

Shhh, it’s nesting time! It’s every pet parent’s responsibility to be aware of local laws regarding dogs. In Switzerland one of them involves the cantons of Fribourg, Geneva, St. Gallen and Vaud and states that dogs may not be walked in a forest without a leash from April 1st to July 15th. These rules are designed to protect wild habitats and animals in the canton, avoiding unnecessary stress to their reproductive and nesting habits.

Pro tip: be especially cautious, even on leash, if your dog has a high prey-drive and follows a scent – sometimes baby squirrels or mice can be hidden in the bushes!

  • Easter Holiday plans

The early bird gets the worm! Spring is always a beautiful season to travel, in order to avoid the summer crowds all while taking advantage of milder climate. While you book your next holiday, don’t forget to reserve your pet’s stay at Dogs Paradise! Easter holidays are one of the busiest times of year and to have your dog’s reservation guaranteed with us, will provide you the utmost peace of mind. Plus, we are always organizing fun themed-events during that time making it an exciting vacation for everyone involved!

Pro tip: Make sure to follow our social media accounts for all the behind the scenes peeks from our annual Easter egg hunt and cute bunny ears disguises!