Baby its cold outside! And, if it is too cold for people to be outside, then it is also too cold for dogs. Keeping our canine family members warm through the winter months is important for maintaining their good health.
Dogs love to walk no matter the season, but being outside in the winter frost requires a little help to stay warm. This is particularly true for breeds with short hair like Greyhounds and smaller dogs that quickly loose body heat.
Here are eight cold weather tips to keep your dog safe, and warm:
- Coats, sweaters, hats, and scarves are very important during the wintertime. There is a wide range of fashionable pet outer wear available to keep out the chill. Water-resistant outer wear is best for warmth and protection against rain and snow. During severe cold temperatures, insulated coats are best.
- Also, booties help to protect dog's paws when walking on ice, snow, and salt.
- Take shorter walks, and when you come in from the outside, wipe your dog's feet. They can track road salt of antifreeze and lick it off their paws.
- Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep, away from drafts.
- Don't leave a pet unattended in a car. The vehicle can act like a refrigerator, holding in the cold and freezing your pet to death.
- Keep your dog on a leash at all times when you are outside. Dogs can lose their scent-sensing ability in snow and ice.
- Keep pets away from medication commonly used during cold and flu season.
- One of the best ways to ensure your pet is staying warm is to have lots of contact with them. Finding time for being affectionate will help spot any sign of a chill during the winter months. What dog would not enjoy a belly rub?