During the cold and chilly weather in winters it is very important to keep your four-legged friend fit and healthy. But due to the atmosphere outside, it becomes challenging for the dog owners to come up with original ideas to expend the surplus energy of dogs within the house. The best way is to play fetch with your furry friend or even better, take short winter trips to the dog park to burn off the excess energy of the pet.
But due to the cold temperature, it becomes very difficult for the pooch to adjust to the chilly weather. Hence, as a dog owner, it becomes very important for you to take necessary steps to ensure that your four-legged friend is free from any dangers during the winter season.
Let us look at some of the tips that will assist you in keeping your tyke happy and fit during the colder months of the year:
Consult with your veterinarian before taking your dog to the outdoors
Your veterinarian is the best guide to tell you whether it is appropriate for your pooch to go outside in the cold weather. Senior dogs, arthritic dogs and dogs having short furs and puppies are usually not allowed to move outside due to the fact that they are sensitive to the cold weather. You can even ask them whether your pet can be taken for short walks outside or not. If your veterinarian gives the consent, ask them for the precautions that need to be taken when you take your pooch outside in the cold.
Have special dress for your dog to protect them from cold
During winters it is very important for you as a dog owner to dress your pooch in a warm coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck. Remember that the pet’s back should be covered from the base of the tail and also shield their belly. Also have special dog booties that can shield your pet from ice and salt in the outdoors. But always let them practice the boots inside the house.
Look for the signs of frostbite and hypothermia in pooch
When the temperatures are really quite low it affects the tips of the ears and the skin of the pet turns reddish or pale, swollen and painful or numb. You should also look out for the signs of hypothermia like shallow breathing, collapsing, unconsciousness and disorientation. If you find any of these signs in the dog, consult with your veterinarian immediately.
Go to dog parks that have proper fencing
It has generally been found that most of the dogs in the USA get lost during winter than any other season due to the fact that they lose their sense of scent in snow or ice. Hence, always take your pooch to a dog park that has proper fencing.
Trim the paws of the pooch
If you find that there are hairs between the toes and under the feet of the dog trim them down during the winter season. This will avert ice upsurge between the paw pads.
Once you have taken these things into consideration your four-legged friend will find it much easier to tolerate the cold temperature in the winter season. If you would like to share your personal experience about how you dealt with your dog during winter season post your comments below and we would integrate it in our upcoming blogs. Till then keep reading our blogs and do not forget to post your invaluable comments!!
