Why Clothing Your Pets is So Important

Essential Benefits Reaped from Clothing Your Pets Adequately

Pets have become part of our families. So, just like our kids, or pets need attention and protection to make their lives comfortable and healthy. In fact, in countries like the U.S, Europe, and Japan, clothing pets has become a trend. However, not all pets may need clothing or grooming salons, but some enjoy life in clothes, and you also need to do it for health reasons. While some pets do well in all-weather seasons, some have sensitive skins that need to be protected. Also, smaller dogs are vulnerable and have a high risk of exposure to cold and sunburns. Although some people are skeptical about the idea, there are a dozen reasons to clothe your pets.

Health Reasons

When pets fall ill, their immune systems become weak. Therefore, clothing can prevent them from falling sick. For instance, Hypothermia is a common disease among dogs, so finding proper clothes for dogs like sweaters, especially for the small ones, can be a great idea. According to Mr. Becker, humanizing pets is no longer unusual today. It has become common to see pets such as dogs walking around with hats, shirts, sweaters, and dresses. He further says that they need clothes to help regulate their body temperature.

Moreover, some pets have sensitive skin, especially after a haircut. This will increase their chances of environmental risks. So, clothing can prevent them from sunburns and other related threats. Additionally, during cold seasons like winter, pets, especially the younger ones, are vulnerable to cold. Pets find it challenging to generate enough warmth to their body during cold seasons. So, clothing can help prevent them from health issues as well as keep them warm and comfortable.

Hygiene Issues

Hygiene is paramount, and it can be beneficial if you ensure your pet maintains high hygiene standards. Pets are always in contact with family members, so keeping them clean keeps your family safe. Therefore, getting clothes for dogs and visiting grooming salons regularly can help them stay clean. For instance, your dog may be okay without clothes while indoors, but while outside, you may need some coat for them. While the pets play and roll over, clothes can contain the dirt from the ground. Hence keeping them with less dirt, which enables them to stay clean, meaning they'll be having fewer baths.

In addition to clothing, keeping your pet's supplies in an appropriate location and regularly disinfecting them can help protect the spreading of germs. Keeping your pet's clothes clean can also keep away bacteria. Also, avoid keeping and cleaning the pet's supplies in the kitchen or near food preparation locations because they can easily spread germs to your surfaces hence posing health risks. Also, pets' poop may have parasites, so you should safely handle and dispose of it in an appropriate area to avoid contamination.

Age

Old pets are vulnerable to medical issues as compared to their younger counterparts. Aging can make it difficult for them to regulate their temperatures; so, maintaining normal heat supply can be challenging. Too much cold can cause discomfort and decrease your pet’s immune system as well. Alternatively, extreme summer temperatures can result in scorched paws and stroke. Therefore, getting warm clothes for your old friend, especially during cold seasons, can help them stay healthy and comfortable.

For instance, if you're taking your dog for outdoor activity, considering a waterproof coat can help keep them warm, dry, and comfortable. You can also consider snow boots for your dog during winter to keep them warm and protect them from sliding surfaces. Similarly, clothes for dogs can protect your old friend from paw injuries, keep them warm and comfortable, and reduce their risk of contracting diseases.

Conclusion

Clothing your pet has several benefits both to you and your pet. However, you need to train your pet to get used to clothes as well as grooming places at a younger age to avoid creating discomfort for them. And always find appropriate clothes that are appealing and the right size to ensure they can freely play and walk around.

About the Author:

Mia Morales is a loving wife and mother of twins from Colorado. She is a self-described “DIY addict”, and loves to decorate her house and office with her creations. As a mother, Mia is really passionate about health, nutrition, and what she puts in her body. When she’s not writing, you can find her playing with her little dog and kids. Who says moms aren’t superheroes?

There is nothing cuter than a pet in a colorful sweater, but do our furry friends really need to wear clothing? Although clothing is not a necessity for every pet, some animals benefit from a little extra protection during cold or damp days. Others enjoy wearing festive clothing during holidays or other special occasions. No matter what the reason, it's important to ensure that the clothes you buy your pet are comfortable and safe.

Types of Pet Clothing

The pet clothing business is a thriving industry. Multiple manufacturers offer a variety of functional and fun pet-sized clothing for dogs and cats, including:

Sweaters, Coats, and Sweatshirts

Sweaters, coats, and sweatshirts are ideal for pets that have a little trouble keeping warm. Before you buy or order one of these items of clothing, be sure to measure your pet's neck and chest. Clothing should fit snugly, but not be so tight that it affects your pet's comfort. Sweaters are appropriate for:

• Small and toy dog breeds
• Dogs with cropped coats, such as poodles
• Dogs with thin coats, such as greyhounds
• Older dogs and cats
• Hairless cat breeds
• Pets with conditions or diseases that affect hair growth

Pajamas

Pajamas are a good choice if you notice your pet shivering during cold winter nights. Older pets, hairless pets, pets with close-cropped hair and small breeds, such as Chihuahuas, may also prefer to wear pajamas during the day if the house is particularly chilly. Unlike pajamas made for humans, pet pajamas do not include pants for obvious reasons.

Booties

Booties protect your pet's feet from developing frostbite, cracked pads, and burns from salt used to de-ice sidewalks and streets. Velcro straps attach the booties to your pet's feet, and grips on the bottom help reduce slipping during icy days.

Raincoats

A raincoat is a good addition to your pet's wardrobe if you live in a particularly rainy climate or your furry friend enjoys long walks on rainy days. Raincoats also provide protection from sleet during winter walks. Fleece-lined varieties keep your pet both warm and dry.

Special Occasion Clothing

Whether you want to dress up your pet for Halloween, Christmas or another occasion, you will find a large selection of styles sure to make a statement. Make sure special occasion clothing does not contain zippers, strings, buttons, or other items that can be chewed off and swallowed.

Fun, Fashionable, and Functional Pet Accessories

Improve your pet's fashion sense with one or more of these stylish accessories:

• Collars and Leashes. Collars and leashes are available in a variety of colors, patterns, and designs. Match the collar to the leash or choose complementary colors and designs. Colorful harnesses are also available for your cat or small dog.
• Glow-in-the-Dark Collars. These collars help your dog or cat stand out when the sun starts to drop and also help you avoid tripping over your pet when you sneak down to the kitchen for a middle-of-the-night snack.
• Friendship Collars/Bracelets. Matching friendship collars and bracelets (for you) offer the perfect way to show the world that you and your pet are a team. The collars and bracelets are designed to fits dogs, cats, and their human companions.
• Bandanas. Bandanas are a must-have accessory for many dogs. Although jaunty, bandanas are perfect for everyday wear. They also offer a fun way for your pet to observe a holiday or birthday, or show support for your favorite sports team.

Things to Keep in Mind

Your pet may resist wearing clothing at first. It's best to introduce a new item of clothing gradually. Start by placing the sweater, pajamas, or booties on your pet for a few minutes at a time, then gradually increase the amount of time your pet wears the clothing. Some pets will never adjust to wearing clothing. If wearing a Halloween costume or donning a raincoat stresses out your dog or cat, clothing may not be the best choice for your pet.

Breeds with thick hair or breeds bred for colder temperatures do not need to wear clothing. For example, Siberian huskies were bred to live in the harsh climate of northeastern Siberia and can handle cold temperatures without a problem, although they can benefit from wearing booties to protect their feet from salt and slippery conditions.

Pets can become overheated when wearing clothing, particularly if the temperature begins to rise or if they are very active during a walk. If your pet begins to pant while wearing a sweater or pajamas, remove the item immediately.

Before you add clothing to your cold pet’s routine, be sure to get the vet’s ok that your pet’s discomfort is not being caused by an underlying medical issue. Give us a call if you’d like to set an appointment to discuss the best ways to keep your furry friend comfortable, warm, and healthy no matter what the season.

Sources:

PetMD: Do Dogs Need Sweaters in Winter
http://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/evr_dg_sweaters_for_dogs?page=show

Friendship Collar: Home Page
http://friendshipcollar.com/

Pet360: Weather or Not: Should Dogs Wear Clothes?