Now that we’re ready to enjoy the winter, we should take the steps to ensure our pets are not affected by the change of temperature.
Although there’s a belief that our four-legged friends can resist cold weather better than us hoomans, thanks to their fur, the AVMA (American Veterinary Medical Association) states this is untrue and explains pets' cold tolerance varies from one pupster to another.
The good news? Changing seasons are a great opportunity to pay a visit to your vet for your pupster’s annual wellness exam. Along with this advice on how to keep your pets safe and calm this holiday season, we've compiled these 8 tips, so you can be ready when winter kicks in.
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.
While some large dogs have fur coats that are more cold-tolerant, many thin-coat dogs do not. Anytime you feel it’s too cold, you can turn to a dog coat, jacket or even booties to cover their precious feet.
Tip #5: Keep Paws Clean and Dry.
Winter can be harsh on your pets’ paws. All those salt and chemicals used to sand roads and pavements can be an irritant to your pet’s pads, especially if they have any small cracks or redness between the toes.
So, be sure to check them regularly for signs of dryness, cracks or irritation.
Massaging a soothing moisturizing balm into paw pads before and after outdoor activities can also help soothe them.
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: Adding More Calories to Their Diet Might Be Advisable.
If, by any chance, you and your fur baby can’t take long walks, indoor playdates are always a great idea. Consider providing extra treats to keep them thriving. Even as some pet parents share valid concerns about “winter weight gain,” if your fur baby is exposed to a low temperature continuously — especially the ones who are housed outdoors — it’s advisable to add more calories to their diet.
We recommend these Surprise Me pawTreats. Made with real meat and complementary fruit and vegetables, they are high in carbohydrates with z-e-r-o fillers. This way, as temperatures decrease, our poochs will have more fun ways to keep themselves warm.
If your pet has a special diet, consult with your vet.
Tip #8: Have a Car? Let Other Fur Babies 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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