Rain or shine, your pups need their exercise and want to play. While splashing around in a downpour can seem harmless, wet weather can affect them. However, spending the entire day inside can have equally adverse effects, which is why finding a balance is an important part of pet care. Here is a helpful guide on how rainy weather impacts a dog and how to help them.

Physical Effects

Wet Fur

Like humans, dogs can get sick when they stay wet for too long in the cold. Pneumonia and respiratory infections are common problems, which can be dangerous in senior pets with weakened immune systems. They can also get infected, either on the skin or paws, because the wet conditions make it ideal for bacteria to grow. These organisms can enter the ears, especially when moisture accumulates in these organs. Dogs can also develop painful sores, red areas, and scabbing on the skin from dermal infections.

Lack of Exercise

Dogs require physical activity every day to stay in shape. During a long stretch of rain, they may sit inside all day. They aren't burning enough calories, possibly leading to unhealthy weight gain. Canine obesity can lead to conditions like kidney failure, joint pain, and heart disease.

Mental Effects

Sitting around the house on a rainy day can be dull for your dog, and you may notice a drop in their mood. They can often turn to barking, chewing, and destructive behaviors to get attention because of boredom. The sound of rain and thunderstorms can also make your pet more anxious because of their strong hearing.

How to Keep Them Safe & Happy

Get as much exercise and game time with your dog as you can in the house. Playing tug of war and hide-and-seek with their treats or lightly tossing a soft ball across the room are great pet care activities to stimulate your dog and help them burn calories. They're also mentally engaging because they require problem-solving, preventing boredom. If the sound of rain upsets them, distract them by turning on the TV or playing music.

If you're concerned about your dog's health, visit the pet care team at The Pet Clinic in Honolulu, HI. These veterinarians handle all the essential services pets need to be healthy, including kitten and puppy vaccinations, skin care, and pet nutrition. Learn more about their treatments online, or call (808) 946-5096 to schedule an exam.