pet care in all weather

no matter the weather, pets always need care! so what does precipitation and extreme temps mean for a pet care pro? in this post, pet parents get a peek at their loved one's care in all kinds of weather. this post can also prepare new pet care providers for every season!

know the boundaries!

dogs should only be outside when the temperature is above 40 or below 90 degrees Fahrenheit. if it hits either extreme, outdoor time is limited to a pee break: a yard or the nearest squat spot!

similarly, we're not doing extreme precipitation such as raining cats & dogs or snowing so hard that you can't see the dog in front of you!

when it comes to the latter, those affect driving conditions and mean it's not safe to get to a client. pet parents typically stay home from work as well so it's usually convenient to cancel the service!

when it's safe to be outside, just uncomfortable, it comes down to the pet. for instance, dogs with a thick coat can thrive in cold weather! whereas those with short, light-colored coats don't mind the 80-degree heat.

what to do when it's weathering!

when we cut down outside time due to weather, i still stay with the pet for the full service time which is typically a 30-minute visit. so if we're only outside for 5-10 minutes, now what?

we might play: fetch, tug of war, zoomies (yes, i will zoomie with them)!

sometimes we practice commands and cues that their pet parents have been working on with them: "place," "paw," "wait," "touch."

when we have to dry off, it's an easy transition into a "spa treatment" when a few tools are available such as a hair brush, dental wipes, paw balm, and body wipes.

and for some of the pups, less time outside means more time to snuggle :)

step and repeat

for pet parents, letting their dog in the backyard for a quick squat is an easy task.

for pet care professionals, a rainy day doesn't mean we're only outside for 10 minutes.

with multiple pets on the day's schedule, there are a few accessories that can make the day more comfortable in any kind of weather!

HOT DAYS

sun protection! sunblock, a hat with a visor, UV protection clothing.

water and ice! you should have water on you every day, but this is a biggie on the hot days, of course. invest in an insulated travel cup so your water stays cold!

*carry a collapsible bowl to share the hydration with your pups in a shady spot.

cooling towels! wear one and keep another in a bag with a little water.

neck fans; i haven't used these yet so if you're an avid user please share your recommended brand in the COMMENTS!

RAINY DAYS

a rain jacket that is breathable so you aren't sweating on those warmer days; i recommend shopping an outdoor sporting goods store like DICK'S or REI.

waterproof rain boots! if you have wide feet like me, check out Chooka; i was happy to find that they fit my shoe insoles without pinching my feet. slips-on are preferred so I don't trail water around clients' floors!

WINTER DAYS

a ski jacket! made for warmth and movement, plus, so many pockets! some have removeable layers and an optional hood for warmer days.

another perk: they come in bright colors and bold designs to keep you visible!

snow boots that are easy to slip off/on.

a thermos of your favorite hot beverage!

HOT HANDS to keep your digits warm!

gloves that work with your touch screen; get all those fun snow day pics without exposing your hands to the elements!

*pro tip, carry poop bags that have already been opened before going outside; opening the bags with gloved hands can be impossible!

pet parents: keep in mind that your pet care pro is out there in all kinds of weather because they love your pets which makes it easy to love their job!

if you can offer a refill of cold or hot water, your pet will thank you!

pet care pros: what are your all-weather recommendations? drop some tips in the COMMENTS!

written by jes, not Ai