The winter season brings some of the best times: beautiful snowfalls, family time, tasty treats … It’s also a time of increased risk for our pets! Cold temperatures, chemicals on the road, drying heaters and more can create potential dangers for our fur baby’s well-being.
Going outside is an inevitable part of being a dog, so how do we keep our dogs safe in cold weather? And, how do we prepare for the winter as pet parents? Here are our best tips for getting ready for low temperatures, so your pets are safe, healthy and happy.
Tip #1: Bring Your Pet Indoors.
As obvious as it may sound, it's best to keep our fur babies indoors when temperatures plummet, to avoid possible risks of hypothermia or frostbite. If you notice your pet is shivering or shows muscle stiffness, pay close attention to their behaviour and temperature and consult with your vet.
Keep an eye on your weather app. If the temperature falls below 33°F, it’d be better to play with your pooch inside. This is even more important when it comes to puppies or senior dogs, because it’s difficult for them to regulate their body temperatures.
Tip #2: Give Them Extra Water.
Be sure to provide extra fresh water at home. It is crucial that your dog stays well-hydrated. This is a key factor in helping them regulate their body temperature.
Tip: Temperature
A normal body temperature for your canine companion is 101 to 102°F. If you notice they’re shivering, check their feet, tails and ears for any sign of cold.
Tip #3: Walk During Daylight Hours If Possible.
As days keep on shortening, enjoy your pet-parenting quality time and play with your adventurous pooch anytime you can.
It’s worth considering taking your dog on shorter, more frequent walks to protect them from weather-associated health risks. For days when it's too cold or the weather is too bad to walk your dog outdoors, try exercising with your fur baby at home. Use your stairs, living room or garage to create some tail-wagging fun and keep them moving.
Tip #4: Bundle Up.
Layers are the name of the game in cold weather. Let long-haired pups grow their hair long for extra warmth during this time, and consider sweaters, parkas and boots. If your pup can tolerate it, clothing can add extra protection from the elements. Plus, it’s always a heartwarming sight to see a fur baby in a parka!
If your pup spends lots of time outdoors, consult your vet about potentially increasing their caloric intake. In some cases, your pet might need more food in the winter season.
Tip #5: Prep Care for Coat, Skin & Paws
There’s little more adorable than a puppy frolicking in a new snowfall, but the salt and chemicals that come along with cold weather can be dangerous to their health.
Each time your fur baby comes inside, towel them dry and remove all snow and other dirt. Pay extra attention to their paws and in between the toe pads. We recommend wiping their paws with a damp cloth to reduce the chance of consuming something dangerous.
Lastly, use a moisturizing balm, like pawTree’s Healing & Moisturizing Balm, to keep the pads of the feet and nose hydrated and prevent cracking. As heaters come on and cold winds blow, it becomes more challenging to keep skin healthy — butter balms can help!
Tip #6: Out With The Old, In With The New: Brush Out Old Coats of Fur.
Time for some five-star spaw with your four-legged baby! Brushing out old fur will allow a fuller, fluffier coat to grow in and help your pet insulate better.
Tip #7: Stock Up on Indoor Games & Activities
Many of our four-legged companions get their best exercise and happiness from parks, hikes and other outdoor activities. So as the winter begins, be sure to stock up on indoor games and family activities, so you can keep their spirits up!
Buy your pup a new toy or play fetch in a long hallway! You might even plan a family activity and bake wintry, pet-friendly Snicker’doodles’. Check out our list of indoor games and activities to keep you and your pup entertained.
Tip #8: Have a Car? Let Other PETS Know Where You Are.
Because you can’t be too careful when it comes to the safety of animals, if you were to move your car, make some noise. Even though it hardly ever happens, cats like to find shelter close to a warm vehicle engine or under the hood. Look under your car and honk the horn before you start the engine.
By following these 8 simple steps, you’ll be more than ready to enjoy a safe winter with your loyal four-legged babies and spread happawness to your loved ones.
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