by Evangeline Uriyu

Created on: September 18, 2010

 Cold-weather tips for dogs

Did you know that dogs suffer all the discomforts and potential dangers from the cold that we humans do?  Never assume that because he wears fur, he is going to stay warm and doesn’t need protection from hypothermia and frost-bite. There are also other cold weather dangers for dogs as well. 

Here are some cold weather safety tips to remember during winter.

 1.   Buddy System

Never let your dog outside alone during a snowstorm.  He may become disoriented, lose his scent in the snow and end up in harm’s way.  Better yet, walk him on a leash during heavy snow.

 2.  Let it grow

If you normally have your dog groomed, let his fur grow out for the winter, he needs the added warmth. 

 3.  Have towels ready

Always wipe him down when he gets in including his belly. Don’t forget the little ice balls that form on his paws and between his toes. Not only can these ice balls cut off the blood supply to his toes, he will lick them off and could ingest rock salt which will burn his mouth and make him sick, or anti-freeze which could kill him. In addition, his paw-pads could bleed from ice cuts and become infected so drying them also allows you to inspect them.

 4.  Boots are made for walking

A great idea is to purchase boots for your dog to protect his paws.  There are many but these are probably one of the best; Bark N Boots with Grip Trex http://www.ruffwear.com/  because they do help with traction on ice.  Some boots for dogs don’t offer that feature. 

 5.  Winter fashionista

Sweaters and coats are a necessity for short haired dogs in the winter.  Make sure it covers him from his neck to the base of his tail, and his belly.  Turtlenecks work the best. Amazon http://tinyurl.com/yh5qg9k  and check out the matching Squall Jackets for you and your best friend.

 6.  More calories please

If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors  in the winter, increase his calorie intake.  He will need the extra calories to keep warm, especially if it gets below freezing. 

 7.  Aching bones

If your dog has arthritis, keep him warm, and watch for icy spots where he can slip. Cold increases the pain of arthritis so keep his bed in a warm spot, keep him in a sweater if your home is drafty and if you can, exercise him indoors until the weather improves.

 8. Throw out the rock salt.

Switch to Safe Pawshttp://www.safepaw.com/  to melt ice instead of traditional rock salt.

 9.  No skating today

If you live near a body of water such as a pond, lake or river, keep your dog away from them. Every winter a dog that has fallen through the ice makes the evening news. 

 10.  No car rides today

Leave your dog home instead of keeping him in the car while you shop in the winter.  A cold car quickly becomes as cold as a refrigerator and can freeze your dog to death.    

Finally, at the first sign of shivering, bring your dog indoors immediately before he suffers hypothermia which can lead to death.  Throw blankets in the dryer for a few minutes and wrap him up. You can also fill a large soda bottle with warm, not hot water and put it next to him. The key is to warm him up slowly.  Call your veterinarian immediately if his breathing is shallow, his muscles rigid, or you suspect frostbite.

Winter can be a lot of fun for you and your dog.  Just follow these cold weather safety tips so he can enjoy exercise and fun without being injured.  

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