The winter season does not only bring in a festive ambiance and cold weather. It also drags along a number of threats that can endanger our dog’s safety. Let’s protect our furry friends during winter by taking note of these important cold weather safety tips.
1. Let it snow, let it grow.
Avoid shaving off your dog’s coat in winter. He needs all that fur to give him extra warmth. For dog owners with a long-haired dog, just trim some of his fur, especially the ones between his toes. This is to minimise salt crystals, ice balls, and de-icing chemicals from clinging to his skin.
2. Not all thick-skinned.
You need to know your dog’s cold tolerance. Some breeds tolerate the frosty weather better than other such as Alaskan malamutes, Newfoundland, and Siberian huskies. Their bodies are naturally built to handle the cold. However, dogs with thinner coats, senior pooches, and puppies are more vulnerable to the frosty weather and the health issues that come with it, such as hypothermia and frostbite.
3. Time for dress-up.
Bundle your pooch in doggy sweaters. These are not only cute fashion items, but they also keep our furry friends warm, especially small dog breeds. Since their bodies are low to the ground and usually have thin or short coats, they might easily get cold. Consider getting your dog booties as well to protect his paws from getting cracks when you go out for walks. Just ensure that they have a good grip and are well-fitted to avoid slipping on ice.
4. Warmth for the elderly.
Senior dogs have a low resistance to cold weather, so owners need to pay extra attention to keep them warm. If the temperature is too low, they might catch a cold, triggering other severe illnesses. One great but simple way to keep your old furry friend safe is to keep him warm. When indoors, ensure that his bed is placed in a warm spot. If you go out for walks, limit your time and let him wear a coat to ward off some of the chilly air.
5. Beware of the collapse.
The Winter season is the time when trachea collapse becomes very serious. It is a disease in which the trachea or windpipe suddenly shrinks due to structural abnormalities or external pressure. If a dog is exposed to an area with a big temperature difference, he might develop this condition. Thus, dog owners need to avoid suddenly subjecting their dogs to environments with great temperature differences and, for example, bringing your dog inside a warm room after a walk outside the cold snow. You should also limit the amount of exercise your dog does since it can increase his susceptibility to tracheal collapse.
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6. Keep it short.
Excessively long nails can make your dog walk with his paws splayed out, which causes more snow build-up between his toe pads. Therefore, check your dog’s paws after each walk and trim your pooch’s nails regularly.
7. Dangerous waters.
Stay away from frozen lakes and rivers when walking your dog. The ice may not be thick enough to support him and might crack under his weight. If possible, keep your pooch on lead to prevent any attempts of him jumping into the water.
8. Do not let it go dry.
Ensure that your pooch has access to fresh water at all times. Water is important for your dog’s ability to regulate its own body temperature. If you place water bowls outside, make sure it is made of plastic. Avoid using metal ones since they can freeze, and your pooch’s tongue might stick on them.
9. Towel down.
Dogs tend to lick their paws after a walk. Although this is a natural habit, it can be dangerous since various dangerous chemicals such as antifreeze, which is commonly found in de-icers, can stick to his paws. Therefore, you need to dry his feet and between his toes thoroughly to get rid of any harmful agents. Do not forget to remove snowballs that may form on his footpads.
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10. Time for a bathroom break.
Bathroom breaks for a puppy or senior dog can be tough since they are usually sensitive to the cold. If it is difficult to take them outside due to the frosty weather, consider using old newspapers or training pads to allow them to relieve themselves without stepping outside.
11. Paw protection.
Check your dog’s paws after each walk; if your dog has cracked paw pads, treat it with a pet-safe balm or some coconut oil. Cover it with socks or distract him from licking it off.
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12. Less on the carbs.
The wintertime weather can make your dog lazy and less active. Do not overfeed your dog, or he will end up gaining too much weight when spring comes. Be attentive to your dog’s activity level and adjust his calorie intake accordingly. You can also incorporate fun games during mealtime. For instance, spreading meals throughout the different parts of the house or hiding kibbles to have your dog search for them will both satiate his hunger and also give him a bit of exercise and fun.
13. Careful with that heat.
Make sure to guard heat sources in your home, such as heaters and fireplaces. During wintertime, dogs tend to search for warmth inside your home. Your furry friend might end up getting burned if these areas are not dog-proofed.
