How Seasons Impact Your Pet's Care in Boise

Boise experiences four distinct seasons, and each one brings different challenges and benefits for our pets. From hot summers to snowy winters, seasonal changes can affect your pet’s health and routine. Being aware of these impacts helps you adjust your pet care accordingly throughout the year.

Spring: Awakening & Allergies

Spring in Boise is generally mild and a welcome relief after winter. As the weather warms up:

• Allergies: Like people, pets can suffer from spring allergies. Pollen from blooming plants may cause some dogs and cats to itch or sneeze. If you notice red eyes, itching, or sneezing, a vet can recommend pet-safe antihistamines or other treatments.
• Parasites Emerge: Flea and tick activity increases as temperatures rise. Start or continue your pet’s flea and tick preventative in spring. Boise’s foothills and parks are beautiful this time of year, but also home to ticks—so check your pet after hikes.
• Outdoor Adventures: With pleasant weather, you’ll likely spend more time outside with your pet. It’s a great season for exercise, but always carry water for your pet during long play sessions and be mindful of those spring rain showers (you might need a towel for muddy paws!).

Summer: Heat & High Adventure

Boise summers are hot and dry. To keep pets safe:

• Hydration & Shade: High temperatures mean your pet can overheat quickly. Provide plenty of fresh water and shade whether they’re in the yard or on a hike. Avoid strenuous exercise during peak afternoon heat.
• Hot Surfaces: Asphalt and concrete can become scorching in the sun. Protect your dog’s paws by walking during cooler parts of the day or sticking to grassy or shaded paths. If you can’t hold the back of your hand to the pavement for a few seconds, it’s too hot for paws.
• Never in Cars: It can’t be said enough—never leave your pet in a parked car in summer. The temperature inside can skyrocket in minutes, leading to heatstroke or worse.
• Water Safety: Summer is a great time for swimming in the river or lake. Most dogs love it, but always supervise swim time. Rinse your dog after natural water play to remove algae or irritants, and watch out for harmful blue-green algae blooms which can be toxic if ingested.

Fall: Cooling Down & Preparations

Autumn brings cooler weather and is often an active season for pets and owners in Boise:

• Comfortable Exercise: The cool, crisp air is perfect for longer walks, hikes, and playtime without the risk of overheating. Enjoy Boise’s beautiful fall trails, but keep using that flea/tick prevention until the first deep frost, as these pests can linger into fall.
• Seasonal Shedding: Many pets grow a thicker coat for winter and might shed their summer coat in the fall. Regular brushing helps manage the extra fur around your home and keeps your pet’s coat healthy.
• Holiday Cautions: With fall holidays like Halloween and Thanksgiving, be mindful of pet safety. Keep candy (especially chocolate and sugar-free candies with xylitol) away from pets, and ensure festive decorations or party commotion don’t stress them out. Thanksgiving feasts are delicious, but fatty table scraps can upset a pet’s stomach—limit the people food treats.

Winter: Cold & Cozy

Boise winters can be cold with occasional snow:

• Warmth: Not all pets handle the cold well. Short-haired or small breeds may need a doggy sweater or coat for walks. Provide a warm sleeping area away from drafts. Outside, limit time if temperatures drop below freezing—frostbite can threaten ears, paws, and tails.
• Paw Care: If there’s snow or ice, watch for ice melt chemicals on sidewalks; these can irritate paw pads or be toxic if licked. Wipe your pet’s paws after walks. You can also apply pet-safe paw balm to protect and moisturize their pads in winter conditions.
• Antifreeze Warning: Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is extremely toxic to pets and unfortunately has a sweet taste that might attract them. Keep it well out of reach and clean any spills immediately. If you suspect your pet licked antifreeze, it’s a life-threatening emergency—get to a vet immediately.
• Holiday Stress: Winter holidays mean visitors, fireworks on New Year’s, and changes in routine. Create a quiet space for your pet to retreat if things get busy, and keep routines (like feeding and walks) as regular as possible to reduce stress.

Conclusion: Each season in Boise brings unique joys and challenges for pet owners. By adjusting your pet care routines to the weather—keeping pets cool in summer, safe in winter, and healthy year-round—you’ll help your furry friends thrive no matter the season. When in doubt about weather-related pet concerns, your local Boise veterinarian can offer guidance specific to our climate and your pet’s individual needs.