Springtime in Florida brings sunshine, warmer temperatures, and lots of outdoor fun for pups and their people. But with the change in season also comes an increase in shedding, pesky fleas and ticks, and pet hair collecting on every surface of your home.
This guide will help dog parents in Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Vero Beach, and across the Treasure Coast prepare for the season with practical tips on managing shedding, protecting your pup from parasites, and keeping your home fresh and clean.
Managing Spring Shedding in Dogs
As the days get longer and the weather warms, most dogs begin to shed their winter coats. This natural process—especially common in double-coated breeds—helps your pup stay cool in Florida’s humid climate. But for pet parents, it can feel like fur is flying everywhere.
Daily Brushing Is a Must
Brushing your dog daily helps reduce loose hair, prevents matting, and improves coat health. Choose a brush based on your dog’s coat type:
- Short-haired breeds: Use a rubber curry brush or grooming glove to lift loose hair and dirt.
- Long-haired breeds: A slicker brush or pin brush will detangle and reduce mats.
- Double-coated breeds (like Huskies, Golden Retrievers): Use an undercoat rake to reach the thick, dense layer of fur beneath the surface.
Regular brushing also gives you a chance to check your dog’s skin for any signs of fleas, ticks, or irritation.
Bathe with Purpose
Spring is a great time to freshen up your pup with a gentle bath. Aim for once every 4–6 weeks unless they’ve rolled in something smelly.
- Use a deshedding shampoo to loosen the undercoat.
- Follow with a moisturizing conditioner to prevent dry, itchy skin.
- Dry thoroughly and brush again afterward to catch any remaining loose fur.
Keep in mind: Overbathing can strip natural oils from your dog’s coat, so don’t overdo it.
Flea and Tick Prevention in Florida’s Humid Climate
If you’ve lived in Florida for any length of time, you know how relentless the fleas and ticks can be, especially in spring and summer. The warm, humid weather creates the perfect environment for these pests to thrive.
Stay Ahead with Vet-Approved Preventatives
Prevention is always easier (and cheaper) than treatment. Talk to your veterinarian about the best options based on your dog’s lifestyle, health, and risk factors. Here are some common and effective choices:
- Topical Treatments: Monthly spot-on treatments are easy to apply and kill fleas and ticks quickly.
- Oral Medications: Chewable tablets provide systemic protection and are often favored by pet parents who want to avoid messy applications.
- Flea Collars: Modern flea collars can provide up to 8 months of protection and are great for dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Some products also protect against other parasites, such as heartworms and intestinal worms, so be sure to ask your vet about multi-functional options.
Natural Flea and Tick Repellents
If you prefer a more holistic route—or want an extra layer of protection in addition to your vet’s recommendations—consider these natural options:
- Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Adding a small amount of raw, unfiltered ACV to your dog’s water (about one teaspoon per 50 lbs of body weight) may help make their skin less attractive to fleas. Always check with your vet before adding anything new to their diet.
- Diatomaceous Earth (DE): Sprinkle food-grade DE on carpets, pet bedding, and around the yard. It kills fleas by dehydrating them, but it must be used with care to avoid inhalation by you or your pup.
- Essential Oil Sprays: Fleas dislike certain essential oils, such as lavender, peppermint, cedarwood, and lemongrass. Use dog-safe formulas or make your own (but never apply undiluted oils directly to your dog—some can be toxic).
Natural solutions work best in combination with regular grooming and a clean home environment.
Cleaning Your Home: Pet Hair & Odor Management
When shedding season hits, keeping your home clean becomes a daily challenge. But with the right tools and techniques, you can keep your space fresh and fur-free—even in the middle of Florida springtime.
Removing Pet Hair from Furniture & Floors
- Vacuum Often: Use a vacuum designed for pet hair with strong suction and a HEPA filter. During peak shedding, hit high-traffic areas and pet beds daily.
- Use Lint Rollers & Rubber Gloves: Lint rollers are perfect for couches, while damp rubber gloves can help lift hair from upholstery and car seats.
- Try Microfiber Mops: On hardwood, tile, or laminate floors, microfiber mops trap hair better than brooms, which tend to push it around.
Reducing Pet Odors Naturally
- Baking Soda: Sprinkle it on carpets and dog beds, let it sit for 15–20 minutes, then vacuum. It absorbs odors without any harsh chemicals.
- Wash Bedding Weekly: Wash your dog’s bedding and favorite blankets once a week in hot water with pet-safe detergent.
- Enzyme Cleaners: For accidents or musty smells, enzyme cleaners break down odor-causing bacteria instead of just masking the odor.
- Air Purifiers: A purifier with a HEPA filter and activated carbon can remove pet dander, odors, and allergens—especially helpful if someone in your home has allergies.
Springtime Pet Care = A Happier, Healthier Dog
Spring in Florida is beautiful, but it’s also a busy season for dog care. By staying on top of shedding, using effective flea and tick prevention, and keeping your home clean and fresh, you’ll set your pup (and yourself) up for a healthier, more comfortable spring.
Ready to get your dog springtime-ready the Goldstar way?
Book a free puppy consult today and let our certified trainers in Fort Pierce, Port St. Lucie, Vero Beach, and Sebastian guide you through every season of dog ownership.
