Are you and your dog ready for spring and summer adventures? As the snow dissipates and the excitement of warm weather adventures comes over the horizon, it’s important to prep your pups for the season ahead just as you would yourself. This means checking their gear from last year, taking inventories of necessary updates and the like. Bringing my dog Fern on excursions is one of my favorite ways to spend my days off. Here are three of my must-haves for the spring and summer!
WagWell Allergy & Itch Chews
As spring comes into bloom and pollen makes its return, Fern feels the change in season too. Whether it’s a few itches there or a few sneezes here, the change in season comes with a bit of discomfort for her.
WagWell Allergy + Itch Chews not only have easy-to-recognize ingredients like colostrum, echinacea and spirulina, but they also list out each active ingredient on their website and their reason for including it. “WagWell is a modern wellness brand born from the idea that the pet industry is lacking a mission-driven, trusted voice of reason as the go-to brand for all things health and wellness for your dog” — wagwellpet.com.
I have noticed a big difference in the amount of itchiness my dog has experienced since taking the chewables and I constantly get compliments on her shiny coat! Always do your own research before adding a new supplement to your dog’s regime, though I can confidently say WagWell is extremely high quality.
Nonstop Dogwear Protector Booties
From the rocky mountaintops of Colorado to the warm cobblestone streets in Vail Village — sometimes dog booties are necessary. Many people think a thick shoe-like sole is necessary, but I’m here to tell you that’s not the case. The Protector Booties from Nonstop Dogwear are the perfect balance of low-profile protection. Their level five anti-cut base fabric is coated in nitrile rubber for extra durability and grip without adding volume.
I tested these booties out on Fern when we went skinning at Arrowhead after the mountain closed for the season. The ungroomed — and in some cases icy — terrain was no problem for her with these booties. They didn’t budge one bit on the uphill or downhill. The combination of the flexible fabric with the strong velcro closure kept them secure even when she bounded down the slick slopes.
Even if you feel your dog doesn’t need booties, they are always a great item to have in your doggy first aid pack. You never know when a sliced paw pad comes into play! Adventure with an extra sense of security with these booties on your packing list.
Ruffwear Omnijore Joring System
Have you ever heard of canicross? It’s a dog sport where the dog and human are connected by their own harnesses and a bungee-style leash. The dog runs in front and helps propel the human forward. My dog and I dabble in the sport and it has been a great bonding (and exercise!) opportunity for us.
Whether canicross racing is in your future or you just love a good trail run with your pup, this setup is a great option! With ergonomically correct elements for both human, comfort comes first! The human waistbelt has detachable leg loops depending on your preference of fit and features a plethora of pockets for your phone, treats, poop bags, car keys, soft flasks and more. The fit is incredibly adjustable and has a quick-release tab should an emergency squirrel-chasing situation arise.
The high-quality, water-resistant material stands up to mud, water, snow and sleet in true Ruffwear fashion. Humans and dogs will be happy with this setup, no doubt!