A sign that your dog has reached puberty by the process called menstruation or a heat cycle. This cycle indicates that your female dog is at the age of reproduction like humans, however, as their owner, you will need to take care of their hygiene and health cautiously to ensure they are comfortable and not in much pain. Though the indication of this cycle is the same as humans the symptoms and conditions may differ which is why I got help from a veterinarian Murrieta, CA to take care of them. They will give you advice and guidance to ensure that you take care of your lovely female dog properly and also assess them. Apart from that you must know and understand hygiene practices which you have to start for your female dog when they experience that, so read this article which talks about them.
Hygiene Practices During Their Menstruation
Use Of Dog Diapers or Pads
The first step is how you can manage their menstrual discharge and for that, you can use dog diapers or pads, this is going to help you keep them clean and also your home from stains everywhere. You can use disposable or reusable diapers though over time disposable diapers can be expensive, and as for reusable on they are made from washable fabrics that are eco-friendly as well as cost-friendly for long-term use.
Regularly Clean Them
To maintain comfort and remove discharge properly you must regularly clean them by bathing them with dog-specific shampoo and cleaning the area around their vulva. If you can not bathe them make sure to clean the area with a cloth soaked in warm water or pet-safe wipe to remove discharge. Before making them wear diapers make sure to dry the area so that there is no bacterial growth because of any dampness.
Maintain Their Living Space
Make sure to wash their bedding regularly to remove odor and any stains. And to protect your furniture from getting stains you can place an absorbent towels where they frequently go and rest apart from their bed. To prevent any other complications because of bacteria clean your home daily.
Maintain Their Diet And Hydration
In these periods to ensure she is comfortable offer a nutrient-rich diet to uplift her energy and do not introduce any new food lest it can upset their stomach and cause them more discomfort. Make sure they have access to fresh water all the time to keep them hydrated as it is important in these periods.
Keep Other Dogs Away
When they are in heat they will release pheromones which are going to attract other male dogs, that is why you must pay attention to keeping them away by avoiding letting her go out to avoid any possible attention from male dogs and if you have a male dog in your home separate them to avoid any accidents.
Do Not Overexert During Walks
Even though exercise is necessary for them in this period do not take long walks and continue playtime for longer periods. Limit the area you walk by taking short strolls and play with them in a way that is not going to cause them too much stress and overexertion.
Monitor Them Carefully
They will not be able to let you know about what they may be feeling or going through, that is why you should pay attention to their behavior and physical health. See to it that they are not uncomfortable and there is no irritation because of diapers. If you notice excessive bleeding or unusual changes in their discharge get them checked with a nearby vet in case there is any infection.
When they are going through these periods as an owner make sure you are attentive towards them because the same as humans need emotional care too when they are hurting inside, Use proper diapers or pads to keep them and your home clean, and pay attention to their mood change and be patient with them. Get professional advice once during these periods and help them overcome this period as comfortably as you can.
