April '26 Newsletter
Happy April!
Spring is finally starting to feel real again, and we know a lot of pets are very happy about that. More walks, more yard time, more fresh air… and unfortunately, for some pets, more itching too.
This time of year, we start seeing a lot of dogs and cats dealing with the early signs of spring skin irritation. That can look like extra scratching, chewing at paws, rubbing their face, licking hot spots, or just seeming more uncomfortable than usual. Sometimes it is allergies, sometimes it is muddy skin and coat buildup, and sometimes it is a combination of things all happening at once.
One thing we always like to remind pet owners is that not every itchy pet has fleas. Spring brings pollen, damp grass, mud, and changing temperatures, all of which can make sensitive skin act up. If your pet seems itchier than normal, it is worth paying attention early before it turns into a bigger skin problem.
A few things that can help this time of year:
- Wipe paws after walks, especially on wet or muddy days
- Keep coats brushed out so dirt, loose hair, and moisture are not trapped close to the skin
- Stay consistent with grooming appointments so the skin and coat stay in good condition
- Check for red spots, over-licking, flaky skin, or any strong odor that seems unusual
- Keep up with flea and tick prevention as the weather warms up
Regular grooming can make a bigger difference than many people realize, especially in spring. A clean coat, a good brush-out, and removing packed undercoat can help air get down to the skin and keep pets more comfortable as shedding and outdoor activity increase.
Of course, if your pet is really uncomfortable, developing sores, or seems to be getting worse instead of better, it is always best to check in with your veterinarian. Grooming is a great support for skin and coat health, but some pets need medical help if allergies or irritation get out of hand.
If your dog is due for grooming, now is a great time to get on the schedule before spring gets even busier. And if you are stopping into the store, we are always happy to help you find supplies that may make muddy paws, shedding, and seasonal skin irritation a little easier to manage at home.
We hope you and your pets enjoy the warmer days ahead!
-Jonathan, Alysa, Rae, and Zephyr