Sun Safety

Dec 15, 2023

Every summer we monitor our pool dogs closely for two of the biggest sun related dangers: sunburn and heat stroke. Our handlers are all trained on recognizing the symptoms to ensure we have the safest in-ground dog swimming pool in the city! Outside of our pool play group, we often worry about our pup’s sun safety and want to share what we know with you! Let’s start with sunburns:


No one enjoys a sunburn! Some breeds are more susceptible to burns than others. If your dog is short haired and light colored (white or fawn especially!) beware of sunburn potential!


The most common breeds to suffer from sunburns are:

White or fawn French & English Bulldogs

White or fawn Boxers

Dogo Argentino

Dalmatian

Beagle

Chinese Crested

Whippet

Weimaraners

Gold or cream Labradors

 

Even if your dog’s breed is not listed above, they could still be at risk of sunburn! All dogs have the potential to burn in the summer sun, so be sure to frequently check areas prone to burns such as the snout, the tips of the ears, and the belly. If your dog loves to sunbathe, it never hurts to use a little sunscreen! Although dogs should never use human sunscreen, there are plenty of pet safe options.


Symptoms of sunburn in dogs can include:

Visible reddening of the skin

Dry, cracked skin

Excessive scratching or whimpering while scratching

Ear edges curling

Shying away from pets or touch

 

Sunburn isn’t the only skin related issue pets can experience in the summer. Paw pads are at risk of damage due to hot pavement. We frequently saturate the ground around our dog pool to keep our swimmer’s paws cool, but that isn’t an option when walking in the city! Before you take your dog for a walk, press your hand to the cement for 10-15 seconds. If it burns, reconsider letting your dog walk continuously on pavement. When possible, encourage your dog to walk on grass and keep their paws off the hot sidewalk. If that isn’t possible, you may consider using a paw salve like Musher’s or PAWZ to protect your pooch’s paws. Rubber boots are also an option for paw protection.

 

Even when the pavement isn’t hot enough to burn, continued exposure to the warm surface can cause damage over time. You may begin to notice your dog’s paw pads becoming rough, dry, or cracking. If this happens, don’t worry! There are plenty of products ranging from soothing balms to paw spa treatments which can aid in healing cracked or rough pads. If you don’t have time to treat your dog’s paw pads, our grooming salon offers a “pawdicure” which includes a soothing soak treatment, soothing paw balm, and a nail file if your pup’s paws are in need of a little TLC.

 

Even though our swimmer’s keep cool in our in-ground dog pool, we still train our staff to be on high alert for symptoms of heat stroke. Heat stroke is a serious concern during the summer months. What may start off as a little extra panting, can quickly become much worse if the proper precautions aren’t taken. It is vital to your dog’s safety that you are aware of the symptoms of heat stroke!


Heat Stroke Symptoms

Excessive or rapid panting

May look like the dog is trying to “catch its breath”

Reddened gums

Excessive drooling

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Ceasing to urinate

Vomiting blood

Seizure

Shock

Glazed Eyes

 

If your dog displays any of the above symptoms, please seek emergency care right away! You can help slow the symptoms of heat stroke by pouring cool or tepid water (never ice cold!) over your dog, pour water on their paws pads, fanning them off, and most importantly: getting them out of the sun.

 

Luckily for us, the symptoms of heat stroke are easy to spot once you know what to look for and don’t typically become rapidly severe. If your dog becomes less responsive during play, lethargic, or appears to have a “mental fog” accompanied with a lot of panting, chances are you should get them out of the sun for awhile and be certain they have access to fresh water.

 

Our staff prides themselves in practicing sun safety during our swimming groups, and we’re glad to pass any information along that we can to keep your dog safe whether they’re swimming in our dog pool or hanging out in a Chicago park. If you have any questions about sun safety, please don’t hesitate to reach out during your next visit!

17 Mar, 2024
As the luck of the Irish fills the air and shamrocks adorn every corner, there's no better time to treat your furry friend to a little luck of their own! Introducing our Shamrock Spa Package, available all March long at Pet Care Plus. Step into the Irish spirit and pamper your pup with a special treat that will leave them feeling as lucky as a leprechaun. Here's everything you need to know about our exclusive Shamrock Spa Package. A Taste of Ireland for Your Pup Our Shamrock Spa Package is designed to delight and indulge your furry companion with a touch of Irish charm. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this package is the perfect way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style. Treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish and watch their tail wag with joy! Our Shamrock Spa Package includes: Treat your pup's coat to a refreshing wash with our green apple shampoo. Not only will it leave them squeaky clean, but they'll also smell as fresh as a spring breeze! St. Patrick's Day Accessory: Get into the festive groove with a fun St. Patrick's Day accessory for your dog. Whether it's a shamrock bandana or a leprechaun hat, your pup will be the most stylish canine on the block! Pup Cup: Spoil your furry friend with a tasty pup cup, the perfect way to reward them for being the best companion ever! Filled with delicious treats, this indulgent snack will have your pup begging for more. Ready to treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish? Booking your Shamrock Spa Package is easy! Simply contact Pet Care Plus and ask about our Shamrock Spa Package for Baths & Grooms. Our experienced groomers will pamper your pup with care and attention, ensuring they leave looking and feeling their best. This St. Patrick's Day, make your pup feel extra special with our Shamrock Spa Package. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this exclusive package is the perfect way to celebrate the luck of the Irish with your furry friend. Don't miss out – schedule your Shamrock Spa experience today and give your pup a St. Patrick's Day to remember!
14 Mar, 2024
On Dog Theft Awareness Day, we're reminded of the importance of safeguarding our beloved pets from the threat of theft. As pet owners, it's our responsibility to take proactive measures to keep our furry friends safe and secure. At Pet Care Plus, we understand the concerns surrounding pet theft, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure the safety and well-being of every dog entrusted to our care – even when their owners are out of town. Join us as we raise awareness about dog theft and highlight the steps we take to keep dogs safe while they're away from home. Dog theft is a distressing reality that pet owners face, with thieves targeting dogs of all breeds and sizes for various reasons, including resale, breeding, and ransom. The emotional toll of losing a beloved pet to theft can be devastating, making it essential for pet owners to be vigilant and proactive in protecting their furry companions. At Pet Care Plus, the safety and well-being of every dog in our care are our top priorities. Whether they're staying with us for daycare, boarding, or grooming, we take numerous precautions to ensure their security and comfort. Here's how we keep dogs safe while they're out of town: Secure Facilities: Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art security measures, including surveillance cameras, secure entry points, and trained staff members who monitor the premises at all times. Personalized Care: Each dog receives personalized attention and supervision from our experienced team members, ensuring they feel safe, comfortable, and loved throughout their stay. Secure Outdoor Areas: Dogs have access to secure outdoor play areas where they can stretch their legs, socialize with other dogs, and enjoy supervised playtime in a safe and controlled environment. Strict Check-In and Check-Out Procedures: We have strict check-in and check-out procedures in place to ensure that dogs are only released to authorized individuals, providing an extra layer of security and peace of mind for pet owners. When pet owners entrust their dogs to our care, they can rest assured knowing that we take every precaution to keep their furry friends safe and secure. Whether they're away for a day or an extended period, we treat each dog as if they were our own, providing them with the love, attention, and security they deserve. On Dog Theft Awareness Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to protecting our furry friends from the threat of theft. At Pet Care Plus, we're dedicated to providing a safe and secure environment for every dog in our care, ensuring they can enjoy their time away from home with peace of mind. Together, let's continue to raise awareness about dog theft and take proactive steps to keep our beloved pets safe and secure.
13 Mar, 2024
As we commemorate K-9 Veterans Day, we honor the brave and selfless service of our canine heroes who have served alongside military personnel. At Pet Care Plus, we understand the importance of providing specialized care for these extraordinary dogs. That's why we're proud to introduce our Special Care Suites, designed to offer comfort, attention, and support for our K-9 veterans and other dogs in need of extra care. K-9 veterans have dedicated their lives to protecting and serving our country, often facing challenging and dangerous situations in the line of duty. Many of these heroic dogs may require additional support and attention due to age-related issues, medical conditions, or behavioral challenges. Our Special Care Suites provide a safe and nurturing environment where these special dogs can relax and receive the personalized care they deserve. Our Special Care Suites are thoughtfully designed to meet the unique needs of K-9 veterans and other dogs requiring specialized care. Each suite includes: Elevated Kuranda bed: Provides orthopedic support and comfort for dogs with joint issues or mobility concerns. Additional staff observation throughout their stay: Our dedicated staff members monitor the well-being of each dog closely, ensuring they receive the attention and assistance they need. Daily email or phone call to the client with a status update: We understand how important it is for pet owners to stay informed about their dog's condition and well-being. That's why we provide daily updates to keep clients informed and reassured. Administration of medication included: Our trained staff members are experienced in administering medications, ensuring that each dog receives their prescribed treatments safely and on time. If you have a K-9 veteran or a dog in need of specialized care, booking a Special Care Suite at Pet Care Plus is simple. Just let us know your dog's specific needs and preferences, and we'll take care of the rest. Our compassionate team is dedicated to providing the highest level of care and support for your furry friend, allowing you to have peace of mind while you're away. On this K-9 Veterans Day, let's honor the remarkable contributions of our canine heroes by providing them with the care and respect they deserve. With our Special Care Suites at Pet Care Plus, we're committed to ensuring that our K-9 veterans and other dogs in need receive the specialized attention and support they require. Book a Special Care Suite for your furry friend today and show them the love and appreciation they've earned through their service and sacrifice.
08 Mar, 2024
As the luck of the Irish fills the air and shamrocks adorn every corner, there's no better time to treat your furry friend to a little luck of their own! Introducing our Shamrock Spa Package, available all March long at Pet Care Plus. Step into the Irish spirit and pamper your pup with a special treat that will leave them feeling as lucky as a leprechaun. Here's everything you need to know about our exclusive Shamrock Spa Package. Our Shamrock Spa Package is designed to delight and indulge your furry companion with a touch of Irish charm. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this package is the perfect way to celebrate St. Patrick's Day in style. Treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish and watch their tail wag with joy! Our Shamrock Spa Package includes: Green Apple Shampoo: Treat your pup's coat to a refreshing wash with our green apple shampoo. Not only will it leave them squeaky clean, but they'll also smell as fresh as a spring breeze! St. Patrick's Day Accessory: Get into the festive groove with a fun St. Patrick's Day accessory for your dog. Whether it's a shamrock bandana or a leprechaun hat, your pup will be the most stylish canine on the block! Pup Cup: Spoil your furry friend with a tasty pup cup, the perfect way to reward them for being the best companion ever! Filled with delicious treats, this indulgent snack will have your pup begging for more. Ready to treat your pup to a little luck of the Irish? Booking your Shamrock Spa Package is easy! Simply contact Pet Care Plus and ask about our Shamrock Spa Package for Baths & Grooms. Our experienced groomers will pamper your pup with care and attention, ensuring they leave looking and feeling their best. This St. Patrick's Day, make your pup feel extra special with our Shamrock Spa Package. From refreshing baths to festive accessories, this exclusive package is the perfect way to celebrate the luck of the Irish with your furry friend. Don't miss out – schedule your Shamrock Spa experience today and give your pup a St. Patrick's Day to remember!
06 Mar, 2024
As the days grow longer and warmer, spring break beckons with promises of adventure and relaxation. But before you jet off on your well-deserved getaway, don't forget about your furry friend! At Pet Care Plus, we're rolling out the red carpet for your pup with our exclusive Spring Break Boarding Special. From March 25th to March 29th, treat your pet to a luxurious stay filled with pampering and fun. And with our limited-time offer, booking your pup's spring break getaway has never been sweeter! Spring break is the perfect time to unwind, explore new destinations, and create lasting memories. Whether you're hitting the beach, embarking on a road trip, or enjoying a staycation, make sure your furry companion is taken care of with our premier boarding services. From now until March 12th, take advantage of our Lucky24 promo code when booking your pet's spring break stay. With this exclusive offer, you'll receive: Free Turn Down Service: After a day filled with fun, let your pup unwind in style with our complimentary bedtime treat – choose between a delicious biscuit or a peanut butter kong. They'll sleep like royalty, dreaming of their adventures to come! Pup Cup: Treat your pup to a delicious pup cup, the perfect way to keep their tail wagging during their stay. It's a special treat they won't soon forget! Don't miss out on this special offer – reserve your spot today and give your furry friend the spring break they deserve! With our attentive staff, comfortable accommodations, and exclusive treats, you can relax knowing that your pet will have their own memorable spring break adventure at Pet Care Plus.
04 Mar, 2024
As we embrace the festive spirit of St. Patrick's Day, there's no better time to celebrate our Breed of the Month: the charming and versatile Wheaten Terrier! With their Irish heritage and playful personalities, Wheaten Terriers steal hearts wherever they go. Join us as we shine a spotlight on these delightful dogs and unveil exclusive promotions tailored just for them. Originating from the Emerald Isle, the Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier, affectionately known as the Wheaten Terrier, boasts a rich heritage steeped in Irish tradition. Originally bred as farm dogs, they excelled at herding livestock, guarding property, and hunting vermin. Today, they are beloved companions cherished for their affectionate nature and spirited personality. The Wheaten Terrier's distinctive coat, ranging in shades of wheaten from pale beige to golden, is one of their most defining features. With a soft and silky texture, their coat is non-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a popular choice for allergy sufferers. Their playful and spirited demeanor, coupled with their love for socializing, makes them wonderful family pets and loyal companions. To make this month extra special for our Wheaten Terrier friends, we're thrilled to announce exclusive promotions tailored just for them: FREE Paw Balm Upgrade: Treat your Wheaten Terrier to a pampering paw balm treatment to keep their paws moisturized and protected, especially after outdoor adventures. BOGO Chew Toys: Indulge their playful nature with buy one, get one free chew toys, perfect for engaging in interactive playtime and keeping them entertained. 1/2 Off Park Walk: Give your Wheaten Terrier the gift of outdoor exploration with a half-price park walk, allowing them to stretch their legs and enjoy the great outdoors to the fullest. Don't miss out on these exclusive offers designed to pamper and spoil your Wheaten Terrier this month! Whether it's a soothing paw balm treatment, new chew toys for endless play, or an invigorating park walk, there's something special waiting for your furry friend at Pet Care Plus. Schedule your appointment today and let the celebrations begin!
01 Mar, 2024
March 1st is a special day for all lovers of the delightful and charismatic Welsh Corgi breed – it's National Welsh Corgi Day! At Pet Care Plus, we're joining in the celebration by paying tribute to these beloved dogs and offering a range of services tailored specifically to meet the needs of our furry Welsh Corgi friends. Join us as we celebrate National Welsh Corgi Day and showcase how Pet Care Plus can cater to the unique needs of this charming breed. Known for their distinctive appearance with short legs, elongated bodies, and expressive faces, Welsh Corgis have captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts worldwide. Renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and playful nature, Welsh Corgis have rightfully earned their place as cherished companions in countless households. At Pet Care Plus, we understand that Welsh Corgis have specific grooming, exercise, and socialization requirements. That's why we offer a range of services tailored to meet the needs of these adorable dogs, including daycare, boarding, retail, and grooming services. Our daycare and boarding provide the perfect environment for Welsh Corgis to socialize, play, and burn off excess energy in a safe and supervised setting. With spacious play areas and dedicated staff members, your Corgi will have a good time during their stay with us. Treat your Welsh Corgi to some retail therapy with our specially curated selection of products designed specifically for this breed. From ergonomic grooming tools to toys and accessories suited to their size and temperament, we have everything you need to keep your Corgi happy, healthy, and entertained. As we celebrate National Welsh Corgi Day, let's take a moment to honor these wonderful dogs and all the joy they bring into our lives. Whether you're looking for daycare, boarding, retail, or grooming services tailored to your Welsh Corgi's needs, Pet Care Plus is here to help. Schedule an appointment today and give your Corgi the royal treatment they deserve!
28 Feb, 2024
February is Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of spaying and neutering pets. At Pet Care Plus, we're passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and advocating for the health and well-being of animals everywhere. Join us as we shine a light on the benefits of spaying and neutering and how it positively impacts pets and communities. Spaying (for females) and neutering (for males) are surgical procedures that prevent pets from reproducing. Beyond controlling the pet population, spaying and neutering offer numerous health and behavioral benefits for animals. These procedures can reduce the risk of certain cancers, eliminate unwanted behaviors such as roaming and aggression, and contribute to longer, healthier lives for pets. One of the most significant reasons to spay and neuter pets is to combat pet overpopulation. Every year, millions of homeless animals end up in shelters, and many of them are euthanized due to lack of space and resources. By spaying and neutering our pets, we can help reduce the number of unwanted litters and alleviate the strain on animal shelters and rescue organizations. Spaying and neutering are essential components of responsible pet ownership. By taking this important step, pet owners not only improve their pets' quality of life but also contribute to the overall welfare of animals in their communities. Together, we can create a brighter future for pets by advocating for spaying and neutering and encouraging others to do the same. As we observe Spay/Neuter Awareness Month, let's reaffirm our commitment to responsible pet ownership and the well-being of animals everywhere. Whether you're a pet owner considering spaying or neutering your furry friend or an advocate spreading awareness about these important procedures, your efforts make a difference. Let's work together to promote a world where every pet has the opportunity to live a healthy, happy life.
27 Feb, 2024
February 27th marks World Spa Day, a day dedicated to relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-care. But who says humans should have all the fun? At Pet Care Plus, we believe that our furry friends deserve a little pampering too! Join us as we celebrate World Spa Day by indulging our beloved pets with luxurious bath and grooming services. Regular grooming is essential for your pet's health and well-being. Not only does it keep their coat clean and free from tangles, but it also helps prevent skin issues, ear infections, and other common ailments. Plus, grooming sessions provide an excellent opportunity to bond with your pet and show them some extra love and attention. At Pet Care Plus, we offer a range of spa-inspired grooming services to keep your pet looking and feeling their best. From relaxing baths and soothing massages to stylish haircuts and nail trims, we have everything your furry friend needs to enjoy a day of pampering fit for a king or queen. We understand that every pet is unique, which is why we offer personalized grooming treatments to suit their individual needs. Whether your pup needs a deep conditioning treatment for their coat or a gentle ear cleaning, our experienced groomers will provide the care and attention your pet deserves. As we celebrate World Spa Day, let's not forget about our furry companions who bring so much joy and love into our lives. Treat your pet to a day of pampering at Pet Care Plus and indulge them with our spa-inspired grooming services. After all, they deserve nothing but the best! Schedule an appointment today and let the relaxation begin.
23 Feb, 2024
February 23rd is National Dog Biscuit Day! It's a day dedicated to pampering our furry friends with delicious, wholesome treats that they're sure to wag their tails for. Join us as we celebrate this special occasion and explore the delightful world of dog biscuits. Dog biscuits have a long and storied history, dating back to ancient times when dogs were first domesticated. Originally crafted from basic ingredients like flour, meat, and water, dog biscuits have evolved over the years into a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and flavors to cater to every pup's palate. There's something truly heartwarming about seeing the sheer delight on your dog's face as they enjoy a tasty treat. Whether it's for training, rewards, or simply to show your appreciation, dog biscuits are a wonderful way to bond with your furry companion and strengthen your relationship. At Pet Care Plus, we're proud to offer a wide selection of dog biscuits in our retail section. From crunchy classics to soft and chewy delights, we have something to satisfy every dog's taste buds. Plus, don't miss out on our specially crafted training biscuits, perfect for rewarding good behavior and teaching new tricks. Swing by our retail section and explore our mouthwatering assortment of biscuits. Whether you're looking for a nutritious snack or a tasty reward, we have everything you need to spoil your furry friend rotten. As we celebrate National Dog Biscuit Day, let's take a moment to cherish the joy and companionship that our canine companions bring into our lives. Whether it's through a simple biscuit or a loving gesture, every moment spent with our furry friends is precious. So why not indulge in a little treat time with your pup and make this National Dog Biscuit Day one to remember? Don't forget to swing by Pet Care Plus and stock up on biscuits for your furry friend – because they deserve nothing but the best!
More Posts
Share by: