Burns, Pests, Toxins and Cholesterol: How to Keep Your Dog Safe in the Winter
Photo source: PixabayLife can get pretty miserable in the winter. The mercury plummets and snow keeps piling up! Particularly in areas where the cold gets really intense, even dogs can be severely affected. You need to take extra care to keep them safe and warm in the winter. Here are 8 ways to do it:
-
To Clothe or Not to Clothe
All dogs are not created alike of course, especially when it comes to their coats. If you have a pooch with a thick coat like a Siberian Husky or St. Bernard under your roof, then things are a bit easier. But regardless of the thickness of their fur, all dogs will need some kind of extra protection if the temperature dips below freezing point; this is especially true when you let them venture outdoors. So have some warm clothing handy if the nip in the air gets particularly severe. Also keep a warm bed for them and never let them sleep on the floor!
-
Water, Ice or Snow for Your Dog
Your dog may love that oh-so-cold popsicle in the sweltering summer heat, but in the winters, keep some fresh flowing water handy. And while you are at it, make sure that the food is warm too. It is important to help conserve their energy and keep their innards all warm. Also keep them away from licking snow outdoors at any cost. Just because it looks pristine white doesn’t mean that it is pure and safe for consumption.
-
Time to Go Easy on the Cheese and Treats
Dogs tend to get less exercise in the winter. And they can pack on the pounds if you keep feeding them at the same rate as you do in the summer or spring. Watch that diet, or you might end up with a really unhealthy pooch. Exercise them as often as possible, and play with your dog while the sun shines to keep him fit and healthy!
-
Fleas and Ticks Don’t Magically Disappear!
Even pests know how to seek warm shelter in the cold. While their numbers do get thinned down in winter weather, they will nevertheless zoom in on your poor four-legged friend. So don’t go easy on the anti-flea medication or inspections while grooming. Let your guard down and you could end up with a nightmarish flea infestation!
-
Remember to Dog-Proof Your Back Yard
Dogs, especially the more energetic escape artists, can find a dangerous ally in snow piled up near your wall or fence. Keep such areas clear of snow to avoid any potential escapades. Also, while you are outside, keep things like antifreeze securely locked away in your garage. A few drops can be fatal, and dogs tend to like its sweet taste – a potential recipe for tragedy that you definitely want to avoid. And remember to continue to keep an eye on your pool area, if you have one. Make sure your pool cover is on securely so that your pet can’t fall in. Periodically check the area where you keep your pool chemicals to make sure they are still stored safely and haven’t spilled or been knocked over.
-
Take Extra Care Indoors as Well!
When they have to spend a lot of time cooped up indoors, your dogs can get really inquisitive and restless. Keep foods that are poisonous to them, like chocolates and raisins, securely locked away. Also remember to adequately cover your heaters, radiators or fireplaces. Dogs will often curl up near sources of heat. If you are not careful, your pet might end up with a singed coat or worse.
-
Shower Some Extra Love on Their Skin
Much like humans, dogs also need some TLC to avoid dry, flaky skin. Moisturize it by adding skin and coat supplements to their diets. Coconut oil can do wonders, both as food and as a topical ointment. And their paws are especially fragile in cold months. Protect them with dog booties when you take them outdoors in the snow or on icy surfaces. It might look silly, but trust me, it is well worth it!
-
Pay Extra Attention to “Senior Citizens”
Those old and creaking bones will not get any better in the cold. So take extra care of your old friend’s diet and exercise requirements in the wintertime. Joint supplements can make a difference in these months. Keep them away from slippery surfaces to avoid injury.
Keep your pooches warm, safe and healthy this winter – they are counting on you!
This article is a courtesy of:
Janice Miller
Safetytoday.org
[email protected]
Phoenix, AZ 85041