Cottage season is sacred in Ontario — and for many families, the dog is as much a cottager as anyone. But the lake, the woods, and the wildlife bring risks that city life does not: ticks, unsafe water, and grooming challenges far from the nearest pet store. A little preparation keeps the weekend fun for everyone.
Tick Prevention and Checks
Tick populations have expanded across Ontario, and cottage country — with its tall grass, leaf litter, and woodland edges — is prime habitat. Ticks can transmit serious illnesses, so prevention matters. Talk to your veterinarian about tick preventive products before cottage season starts, as most need time to reach full effectiveness.
Make full-body tick checks part of every cottage day, ideally each evening. Run your hands over your dog's entire body, paying special attention to ears, armpits, groin, between the toes, and around the collar. A fine-toothed Furbliss Double-Sided Flea Comb helps you work through the coat systematically and spot tiny ticks that fingers miss. If you find a tick, remove it promptly with fine-tipped tweezers, grasping close to the skin and pulling steadily — then monitor the area and note the date in case symptoms develop later.
Water Safety at the Lake
Not all dogs are natural swimmers, and even strong swimmers tire. Introduce nervous dogs to water gradually, never throw a dog in, and consider a well-fitted canine life jacket for boating and for dogs that swim far from shore. Watch for blue-green algae blooms — common in warm, still Ontario lakes in late summer — which can be toxic; if the water looks like pea soup or has surface scum, keep your dog out entirely.
After swimming, rinse your dog with clean water to remove lake bacteria, algae, and minerals, and dry ears thoroughly — moisture in floppy ears after lake swims is a classic setup for irritation. The Furbliss Ear Cleaning Finger Wipes (60 Count) are handy for a quick post-swim ear freshen when you are far from a full grooming setup.
Wilderness Grooming Kit
Pack a compact cottage grooming kit: brush, flea comb, ear wipes, towels (more than you think), a paw cleaner for muddy trails, and any medications. Burrs and foxtails are common on cottage trails — check paws and coat after hikes, and remove burrs promptly before they mat. Keep nails trimmed; long nails snag more easily on uneven terrain.
Wildlife and Campfire Sense
Keep dogs leashed or in sight on trails — porcupines, skunks, and snapping turtles all feature in classic cottage mishaps. Store food securely so wildlife is not attracted to your site, and keep your dog away from the campfire. Bring your dog's regular food (a sudden diet change plus excitement is a recipe for digestive upset) and pack a few extra days' worth in case the trip extends.
Heat, Bugs, and Comfort
Cottages can be hot with no air conditioning — ensure shade and fresh water are always available, and never leave your dog in a parked car at the marina or general store. Blackflies and mosquitoes torment dogs too; avoid walking at dawn and dusk during peak bug season, and ask your vet about safe repellent options rather than applying human products.
Key Takeaways
- Start tick prevention before the season and do full-body checks every evening.
- Supervise all swimming, use life jackets on boats, and avoid algae-bloom water.
- Rinse and dry after lake swims, paying special attention to ears.
- Pack a wilderness grooming kit and check for burrs after every hike.
- Respect wildlife — leash on trails, secure food, distance from campfires.
Note: This article provides general information only. Consult your veterinarian for specific health concerns.
With ticks managed, water respected, and a basic grooming kit packed, your dog is ready for the best weekends of the year. See you at the lake.
Shop Furbliss grooming essentials at furbliss.ca and make pet hair, messy paws, and tangled coats a thing of the past.