Winter Safety Tips – Help Your Dog Manage The Cold

16 Dec Winter Safety Tips – Help Your Dog Manage The Cold

Winter is just around the corner, and you’re probably excited about the snowfall, the warm fires, and the cozy blankets. After all, who doesn’t like snowfall during Christmas? But some people avoid going out due to the cold winds that make them get sick very quickly.

Here are some tips that you can follow to make sure that your pup is safe and healthy this winter.

Know Your Dog’s Breed Well

Every dog is different. Dogs like Siberian huskies and Samoyeds, who have a double-thick layered coat, can bear extremely low temperatures. But dogs with a thinner coat tend to feel cold and can’t handle low temperatures. Pitbulls and greyhounds are examples of dogs with lighter coats, so they must be kept warmer than dogs of other breeds.

Wash and Dry Your Dog’s Feet After a Walk

There’s usually snow in the streets during December and January, and whenever you take your dog out for a refreshing walk, snow can stick to their paws which creates irritation and redness. Make sure to wash your furry friend’s paws when you bring him back home.

Never Shave Your Dog Down to the Skin During Winter

A longer and thicker coat works to your pawed pal’s advantage – it acts as a winter coat and keeps your pup warm and cozy. As such, ensure that you don’t shave your dog’s coat down to the skin right before the cold hits. September is an excellent time to shave your dog, after which you should let the coat grow until winter is over.

Don’t Bathe Your Pet as Often During the Cold

A dogs’ skin is sensitive, and if you are bathing your dog daily, it can harm their skin, causing problems like dryness and flakiness.  Excessive washes strip away the essential oils from your pup’s skin, leaving it dry and even itchy. In addition, your dog will feel cold when given a bath daily, so try to minimize the water play and instead keep your pet warm.

Feed Your Pet a Little Extra in the Winter Months

Try to feed your pet a bit more during winter. More food means more calories which directly implies more energy for keeping the body warm. Also, make sure that your dog is drinking tons of water as it will keep him hydrated.

To get a proper nutrition and diet plan, you need to visit a veterinary clinic. If you live in Dundas, you can visit our clinic for any assistance. We will be happy to guide you.

Never Let Your Dog Off the Leash on Snow or Ice

A dog’s senses don’t work correctly in winter because everything that gives off a scent is covered by snow. They can easily get lost if you’re not nearby. It would be best if you were close to your dog when taking him out for a walk or to the park.

Layer Up Your Pup

Despite having coats and fur, dogs feel the cold. It’s best to layer them up in a doggy sweater or blanket and keep them away from the drift that creeps under the door at night.

Visit an Animal Hospital in Dundas

Sometimes, your puppy needs more than a cozy blanket and should get checked if showing any signs of weakness or abnormality. Before taking anything into your hands, you need to go to your local veterinarian. You can contact a veterinary clinic in Dundas and have a certified vet look at your dog’s symptoms.