Pets look cute in rain and snow apparel, but pet owners may wonder if it’s necessary or stressful for pets to wear an extra layer?
According to vets, rain gear, sweaters and coats
aren’t necessary except for extended outings on really bad days. Pets wearing their own fur coats are adequately dressed for most weather conditions. Pet experts advise that most
dogs and some cats actually seem to like the extra attention they receive while being dressed and looking cute, and in most cases it isn’t stressful. Some pets even seem to prefer staying warmer and drier.
The following tips will help you keep your pet comfortable and safe in rain and snow gear. Coats or sweaters should be:
light weight and comfortable
short enough to allow the pet’s unrestricted movement for walking, running and other business
loose enough to allow unrestricted breathing
properly fitting to allow unobstructed vision and hearing
If pets don’t seem to be happy or at least tolerant of rain or snow gear, let them go au natural and don’t force them to suit up. After all, nobody looks cute if their fabulously fashionable clothes are making them feel miserable.
Grooming - General Information
Grooming is good for your pet and it’s good for you, too. The extra attention a pet receives during grooming is often just what your pet needs to reduce or eliminate stress related problems from
loneliness and separation anxiety. Dogs, cats and birds love receiving attention from their owners during grooming. And studies have shown that petting your animal lowers both his blood pressure as well as yours.
Grooming is also a good way to assess your pet’s health. You can see the condition of his fur or feathers and look for signs of fur or feather loss. You can look for parasites and check his skin for dryness or flakiness. You can check for signs of over-grooming such as excessive licking, flank sucking and feather plucking.
Check with your vet first to determine if there are physical causes for questionable signs and symptoms. It is always best to rule out physical causes first. However, it is also wise to consider if stress is causing your pet’s loss of fur or feathers, excessive scratching and licking, and over-grooming.
If pets don’t seem to be happy or at least tolerant of rain or snow gear, let them go au natural and don’t force them to suit up. After all, nobody looks cute if their fabulously fashionable clothes are making them feel miserable.
