Spring Gear Essentials for Service Dogs

Spring Gear Essentials

You never realize how much the seasons affect your gear until your fluffy service dog starts panting halfway through a walk. Spring in the south isn’t just flowers and sun—it's heat, humidity, and surprise rain showers. That means it's time to update your dog’s gear to match the weather.

Here are a few essentials that help us handle spring a little smarter.

Lighter is Better

In spring (and really, all the way through summer), we switch to our lightest gear. Capes get left behind unless they’re super lightweight, and our harnesses follow the same rule. The goal is to prevent overheating and keep Max as comfortable as possible.

We use a biothane leash from CSJCreations every single day. It’s lightweight, durable, and it handles wet or muddy days without holding onto smells. It also dries fast and is easy to clean—which is always a win.

If you're into it, spring colors and patterns are a fun way to match your gear to the season, especially for those of us who still want function and a little flair.

Rainy Days Don't Stop Us

Rain is just a part of spring, and Max has his very own raincoat for it—a blue one with dinosaurs (yes, it's as cute as it sounds). Here’s the link if you’re curious.

Rain also means mud. I like to use one of those paw cleaner tools after especially muddy walks. I think it’s important to give their paws a rinse—not just for cleanliness, but to avoid irritation from whatever they might have walked through. It’s a small step that can make a big difference.

Watch the Pavement

The sun heats up pavement fast, and burned paws can be a serious risk. We don’t always use boots, but I know a lot of people who prefer to have their dogs wear them in spring and summer just in case. It’s something to keep in mind, especially for dogs working in cities or on campus where sidewalks can get hot.

Don’t Forget Water

Water is always important, but when it starts to heat up, we really double down on it. I carry even more than usual in the spring—enough for both of us, especially on longer outings. Whether it's a collapsible bowl or a doggy water bottle, keeping Max hydrated is just part of the routine now.

In the End...

Spring might come with a little extra mess, but it also means longer walks, more sunshine, and lots of fresh air. Switching up your gear—even just a little—can make a big difference in your dog’s comfort and safety.

Take a minute to review what you’re using. Is it too heavy? Is your leash still drying out from last week’s downpour? A few small swaps can help your service dog work happier and safer this season.

photo credit: Nataliya Vaitkevich on Pexels