3 Easy DIY Summer Treats for Dogs That Are Healthy & Delicious

At Pet Care Plus, we believe responsible pet ownership goes beyond food, exercise, and love—it also means making choices that protect your pet’s health and improve the lives of animals in our community. One of the most important of those choices is spaying or neutering your dog. While the topic may feel routine, the truth is that spaying and neutering have lasting health, behavioral, and community benefits you don’t want to overlook. 1. Health Benefits for Your Dog Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) can prevent or reduce the risk of several serious health issues: Females: Prevents uterine infections (pyometra) and drastically lowers the risk of mammary cancer. Males: Eliminates the risk of testicular cancer and reduces the risk of prostate issues. When done at the appropriate age, these surgeries can contribute to a longer, healthier life for your pet. 2. Behavioral Benefits While training and enrichment play a major role in a dog’s behavior, spaying and neutering can help reduce hormone-driven tendencies, such as: Roaming in search of a mate (reducing the risk of accidents or getting lost) Mounting or marking behaviors Aggression related to mating instincts Your dog will still have their unique personality—they’ll just be less likely to be driven by reproductive urges. 3. Helping the Community Every year, shelters across the U.S. take in millions of unwanted pets, many of whom are the result of unplanned litters. By spaying or neutering your dog, you’re helping reduce pet overpopulation, which means fewer dogs in shelters and more resources for the animals already waiting for homes. 4. When to Spay or Neuter The right timing depends on your dog’s breed, size, and health. For most dogs, veterinarians recommend the procedure between 6–12 months of age, though some may advise earlier or later. Always consult your vet for the best plan for your individual pet. 5. Recovery and Aftercare Spay and neuter surgeries are routine and relatively low-risk. Recovery typically takes 10–14 days, during which your dog will need rest, limited activity, and close monitoring for any swelling or redness around the incision site. Our Special Care Suites at Pet Care Plus are ideal for pets recovering from surgery—providing a quiet, monitored space where they can heal comfortably. A Responsible Choice with Lasting Impact Spaying or neutering is a simple step that offers lifelong benefits to your dog and helps make our community a better place for all animals. If you have questions about the procedure, timing, or aftercare, talk to your veterinarian—or reach out to our team for trusted recommendations.

We get it—life in the city moves fast. Between work, errands, family, and travel, getting your dog to daycare, grooming, or boarding can be one more thing on an already packed to-do list. That’s why our Pet Taxi service was designed to take the stress off your plate and keep your pet’s routine right on track. This summer, we’re offering a special to make it even easier: from May 27 to July 31, 2025, new clients or first-time riders can enjoy round-trip Pet Taxi service for just $5 when you book 2 or more rides per week. We offer door-to-door service in the West Loop and surrounding neighborhoods—anywhere between Pulaski Rd, North Ave, Roosevelt Rd, and the Chicago River. Not in that zone? Give us a call and we’ll provide an estimate. The best part? Your dog still gets to enjoy their day at Pet Care Plus while you handle everything else on your schedule. Whether you're stuck in meetings, heading out of town, or just need an extra hand, our Pet Taxi gives you peace of mind knowing your pup is getting the care, play, and attention they need—without skipping a beat.

Dogs thrive on predictability. Whether it’s knowing when mealtime happens or who they’ll see during the day, routine gives dogs a sense of comfort and stability. That’s why regular daycare and boarding are more than just services—they’re powerful tools for helping your dog feel confident, secure, and happy. A consistent daycare routine allows dogs to build relationships with familiar staff and canine friends. This repeated exposure strengthens social skills and creates a trusted, low-stress environment that becomes a part of their weekly rhythm. Dogs that come regularly are often calmer at home, less anxious during transitions, and more adaptable in unfamiliar settings. This is especially important when it comes time for boarding. A dog who’s already familiar with our facility, routines, and staff is much more likely to adjust quickly to an overnight stay. Instead of feeling like they’ve been dropped somewhere new, it feels like a fun extension of their usual day. So whether you're planning a weekend away or just need support during your busy work week, establishing that consistent connection makes a huge difference in your dog’s behavior and overall well-being.

Enrichment, Exercise, and Cooling Off—All in One Splash When the temperatures rise in Chicago, dogs feel it just as much as we do—and in some cases, even more. Heat, humidity, and hot pavement can limit safe outdoor activity, which can lead to restlessness and pent-up energy. That’s where pool time for dogs becomes more than just a fun perk—it’s an important part of their physical and mental wellness during the summer months. At Pet Care Plus, we’re proud to be the only facility in Chicago with a custom-designed outdoor dog pool . Built with a gradual incline , our saltwater pool is safe for all breeds and sizes—from curious pups dipping their paws in for the first time to seasoned swimmers ready to make a splash. And because it’s saltwater (not chlorine), it’s gentle on sensitive skin and great for promoting a shiny, healthy coat. The Benefits of Pool Time Go Beyond Cooling Off 1. Low-Impact Exercise Swimming is one of the best forms of exercise for dogs. It’s easy on their joints while still building muscle strength and stamina. For senior dogs or those with arthritis, hip issues, or weight concerns, swimming offers a safe and supportive way to stay active without strain. 2. Mental Stimulation Water play is more than physical—it’s mentally engaging. Dogs explore new textures, movements, and experiences when in the water. Whether they’re chasing floating toys, socializing with other swimmers, or simply figuring out the steps into the pool, it encourages curiosity and problem-solving in a fun, low-pressure environment. 3. Sensory Enrichment Splashing, paddling, and playing in water introduces new sights, sounds, and sensations that break up the routine. For dogs that thrive on variety, pool time offers a fresh sensory experience that helps reduce boredom and increase engagement. 4. Stress Reduction Just like humans, water has a calming effect on many dogs. It’s great for pups with anxiety or high energy, helping them relax through repetitive movement, cool temperatures, and physical release. 5. Safe Summer Fun During heat waves, long walks or dog park visits aren’t always safe. Our pool offers a cool alternative where your dog can stay active without the risks of overheating or burned paws. We also keep multiple fresh water bowls available around our outdoor play area to ensure everyone stays hydrated between dips. We know not every dog is a natural swimmer—which is why our team supervises all pool play to ensure safety and positive experiences. We take the time to help first-timers build confidence at their own pace, while giving more adventurous dogs room to dive in and have fun. Pool time at Pet Care Plus is more than a splash—it’s an opportunity for your dog to play, explore, and thrive during the hottest months of the year. Whether they love to swim or are just testing the waters, it’s an experience that benefits their body, mind, and mood all summer long. It’s a win-win: peace of mind for you, and a safe, enriching, and refreshing day for your pup—even when it’s 90° outside.

Chicago’s warm, humid summers bring out more than just patio season—they also bring fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes, which can all carry serious diseases. Fleas can cause allergic reactions and infest your home, while ticks can transmit Lyme disease, and mosquitoes can spread heartworm. To keep your pet safe: Use vet-approved flea and tick preventatives year-round, especially during the summer months. Check your pet’s fur regularly —especially after hikes or grassy park visits. Keep your yard tidy and avoid tall grass during walks. Ask your vet about heartworm prevention, especially if your dog spends time outdoors. At Pet Care Plus, we inspect every pet during grooming appointments and can alert you to any early signs of bites or irritation. We also keep our facility pest-free to ensure your pup stays clean, happy, and itch-free during their visit. Prevent now—so you and your pup can enjoy a worry-free summer.

The Overlooked Essential for Your Feline’s Health and Happiness

Sunburn isn't just a human problem—pets can get sunburned too, especially those with short or light-colored fur, pink noses, or hairless areas. In Chicago, sunny summer days mean more time outside, but it also means more exposure to harmful **UV rays** that can cause painful burns or even lead to skin cancer. To protect your pet: Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. (peak UV hours). Use pet-safe sunscreen on exposed areas like ears, noses, and bellies. Provide shade and water during outdoor time. Consider lightweight protective clothing for vulnerable breeds. At Pet Care Plus, we also offer summer grooming services that help maintain coat health without over-shaving, which can increase sun sensitivity. Ask our team how to safely groom your pup for the season! Enjoy the sunshine—but don’t forget the sunscreen.

Peace of Mind for You and Peace and Comfort for Your Fuzzy Friend

We have been located in Chicago for over 25 years so we know Chicago summers can be brutal, with rising humidity and temperatures often soaring above 85°F. Even on a relatively mild day, the inside of a parked car can reach dangerous temperatures in just minutes. At 80°F outside, a car’s interior can hit over 100°F within 10 minutes —a life-threatening environment for your pet. Cracked windows and shade aren’t enough to keep your dog safe. Heatstroke can occur quickly, especially in flat-faced breeds, older pets, and puppies. Signs of heatstroke include excessive panting, drooling, confusion, vomiting, and collapse. At Pet Care Plus, we urge all Chicago pet parents: if your dog can’t go inside with you, leave them at home—or bring them to daycare with us! Our climate-controlled facility offers a safe, fun environment while you run errands or enjoy your summer plans worry-free. Let’s keep our pups safe and cool this season.