April News
Allergy Season Survival Guide
Does your dog scratch more, sneeze, or lick their paws constantly? They may have seasonal allergies.
What to Watch For:
Red, itchy skin
Watery eyes or sneezing
Licking feet, ear infections
How to Help:
Wipe paws and belly after walks with a damp cloth
Weekly baths with a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo. Remember, oatmeal shampoo will aggravate a grain allergy.
Talk to your vet about antihistamines. My vet suggests Claratin, a non-drowsy drug. One pill provides relief all day.
Try omega-3 supplements to soothe irritated skin.
Bonus Tip: Run an air purifier and keep windows shut on high-pollen days—yes, for your dog too!
Essential Dog Care and Training Tips for the New Season
Spring has sprung! Here's how to welcome spring together safely and joyfully:
1. Spring Cleaning? Don't Forget Your Dog's Gear
Time to toss out the crusty old tennis balls and give your dog's gear a refresh:
Wash collars, leashes, and harnesses – especially if they've been through mud and snow.
Check for wear and tear – frayed leashes or buckles can be dangerous.
Update ID tags and microchip info – dogs get more off-leash time in spring.
2. Prevent Parasites Before They Bite
With warmer temps come the creepy crawlies. Make sure your pup is protected:
Ask your vet about flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. We use Nexguard for our house dogs. I've also heard good reviews about the Sorresto collar.
After hikes or park visits, do a full-body check—ticks love to hide in armpits, ears, and between toes.
Comb your dog regularly to help spot invaders early.
3. Training Tune-Up: Reinforce the Basics Outdoors
Spring's distractions—squirrels, other dogs, frisbees—can make even a well-trained dog forget their manners. Use this time to:
Revisit recall ("come" command) in low-distraction areas before moving to busier parks. Teaching your dog to "come" to a coach's whistle is a great tool.
Practice loose-leash walking as trails get more crowded.
Incorporate fun tricks or agility for mental stimulation on rainy days.
A “sniff” walk is a great way to welcome spring.
4. Plant Smart: Dog-Safe Gardening
Ready to garden? Make sure your spring bloom doesn't become a veterinary doom:
Avoid toxic fertilizers and weed sprays. Many great pet- and child-friendly lawn products are available, so don’t buy one that isn’t safe.
You can make a vinegar, salt, and soap solution that is very effective on weeds. Combine 1 gallon 30% Vinegar, 1 cup table salt, and 2 Tablespoons dish soap. I mix gently the night before spraying.
Skip cocoa mulch—it's toxic to dogs (like chocolate).
5. Spa Time
Many dogs blow their coats in spring. Make grooming a fun bonding experience:
Use an appropriate de-shedding tool or slicker brush.
Bathe as needed, and always with dog-specific shampoo.
Add a massage during brushing for relaxation—and to check for any lumps or bumps.
Don’t clip their hair too short. It protects their skin, and the movement when a breeze blows helps keep them cool in hot weather.
Nursery News
We have four F1b standard goldendoodles available now.
Accepting deposits for the Ronan/Poppy Moyen F1 Goldendoodle litter and the Cosmo/Jinx small standard F1 Goldendoodle litter.
And last but not least is the Nico/Addie sproodle litter, born April 20.
For additional information, please email me. These are the last expected litters until fall 2025.