July is Doghouse Repair Month! It’s great for Fido to have an outdoor home to hang out in. However, just like your own home, it will need occasional maintenance. A Carmel Valley, CA vet offers some tips on maintaining your canine buddy’s doghouse in this article.
Check For Sharp Edges
Give Fido’s house a thorough inspection. Look for any sharp, pointy bits that could potentially injure your furry friend. That includes things like nails and screws, but also sharp edges and splinters.
Inspect The Roof
While Fido should live indoors, he should have a spot to go to if he’s outdoors and it starts to rain. Make sure the roof is holding up, and doesn’t leak. One way to check this is to turn the hose on and have someone ‘water’ the roof for a few minutes. Then, check inside, and look to see if any water got in.
Climate Control
Part of the reasons doghouses are beneficial is that they offer shelter from weather. However, in hot weather, they can become stifling. There are a few things you can do to cool your furry pal’s outdoor home down. On option is to add insulation. This can be spray foam, foam board, or another material. You can use plywood to help secure it, but make sure your pooch can’t access the plywood or compressed wood: these materials can be toxic to dogs if ingested.
Raising it up will also help keep rain out. Seal off holes beneath the house, though: you don’t want snakes moving in!
Add Shade
Is Fido’s doghouse out in the open? If you have a spot beneath a tree, consider moving it there, so there’s some shade. A shade canopy can also help.
Bedding
It may seem like a thick bed is your best bet, but in reality bedding like that may attract mice, rats, and other unwanted guests. Opt for a thick mat or pad instead. You can add cooling pads in summer as well.
Pupgrades
If Fido’s doghouse is in good shape, why not give it a pupgrade? One option is to give Fido a deck to sprawl out in. You can also decorate it with paint, signs, or flower boxes. Or, add a kiddy pool or sandbox for your canine pal.
Do you have questions about your dog’s health or care? Contact us, your Carmel Valley, CA pet hospital, today!
