Fall at Flood Farm, With Tasha
Hello Flood Farm Family,
The mornings on the Peninsula are cooler, the days are shorter, and the rain is back. Every dog on the farm notices, including our eldest.
All about Tasha
She had her first litter here in November 2017 and has been part of the FF Family ever since. She is also feisty for her age. Her favorite thing in the world is her squeaky piggy toy, and she plays with it hard for as long as it survives.
Tasha is a good reminder that fall care changes with age. Here is what we recommend to every Flood Farm family this time of year.
Expect the coat to come out
German Shepherds shed heavily in fall as the summer undercoat gives way to the winter coat. Brush several times a week, daily if you can, with an undercoat rake or slicker brush. Do not shave a shepherd. The double coat insulates against both cold and heat.
Plan for shorter days and wet trails
Walk in daylight when you can. When you can't, use a reflective vest or light-up collar. Dry your dog's paws after wet walks and check between the toes, and rinse off salt and sand after beach walks.
Watch for fall hazards
Mushrooms appear after rain, and some are toxic. Rodent bait and antifreeze also show up this time of year. Keep both out of reach, wipe up spills right away, and call your vet immediately if your dog eats any of them.
Keep older joints moving
Cool, damp weather can leave senior dogs stiff in the morning. Several shorter walks usually suit an older shepherd better than one long one, and dry bedding off cold floors helps. If your dog is slow to rise or limps for more than a day or two, have it checked.
Rainy days are also good for indoor play, and Tasha agrees.
If a Flood Farm puppy is part of your future, applications are always open and place you in consideration for upcoming litters. Cindy chooses each match.
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