You and your dog must prepare to stay safe and warm during winter storms. Here are our top ten tips.
Keep Your Dog Inside
Photo © Oro Whitley
Dogs can suffer frostbite, especially on ear flaps and tail tips. In freezing and inclement weather, it's essential to keep your dog inside where it's safe. If you know a storm is coming, stock up on puppy pads or newspapers so your dog can go to the bathroom inside. If keeping dogs indoors is impossible, be aware of the signs of frostbite, including white or blue skin.
Cover Them Up
If you must go outside, invest in a coat or sweater to help your dog stay warm in cold temperatures. Dogs with thicker coats, like a husky, won't need the extra layers as they are built for the cold, but other dogs will need the extra layer to stay warm.
Keep Your Dog on a Leash
Dogs can easily get lost in a snowstorm because they cannot rely on their sense of smell to find their way home. Additionally, seeing your dog in the snow can be challenging. Utilizing a leash, collar with a tag, and harness will keep your dog safe.
Take Short Walks
Temperatures below 32°F are too cold for your dog to be outside for long periods of time. Keep your walks short and focus on giving your dog exercise inside by playing indoor fetch, tug-of-war, having a play date with another pet friend, and utilizing enriching brain games.
Protect Your Dog's Paws
Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate your pet's paws. Cover them before going out with booties or Vaseline (don't let them lick it!), and be sure to wipe their paws with a damp towel when you get back. Note: Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Keep it out of reach of pets and children, and clean spills immediately.
Provide a Warm Bed and Blanket
Ensure your dog has a warm bed and blanket to curl up in during the winter. This makes a significant difference in keeping your dog comfortable on chilly winter days.
When you know a storm is coming, stock up on pet food and medication. Keeping a two-week supply on hand is critical to ensure your pet's safety during winter storms, road closures, and icy conditions.
Groom Regularly
Photo © South Suburban Humane Society
By regularly brushing your dog, you get rid of the old fur while allowing a fuller coat to grow. Clumpy, matted, and dirty fur doesn't insulate like a clean coat and takes longer to dry.
Keep Them Hydrated
If your dog wears clothing layers for winter, it must drink extra water. Good hydration helps your dog regulate its body temperature. If you are giving your dog water outside, use a plastic bowl; metal bowls freeze and harm your dog's tongue.
Give Extra Treats
Photo © Malissa Ahlin
Your dog will need more calories to stay warm, so give it extra treats and calorie-dense meals. This is especially important after it plays outside.
These tips will make you and your pup cozy and snug all season. And don't forget — cuddling is the best way to stay warm and deepen your bond.
