Unless you live in Hawaii, chances are you have also been experiencing extremely cold temperatures. Just like extreme heat, it is important to protect your pup from the dangers of cold environments.
Keep Your Dog Warm Indoors - If you think it's too cold outside for you, so does your pup. It is important to keep your dog indoors with you, especially when temperatures drop to single digits and below. In addition to extremely low temperatures, it is important to also be mindful of the wind chill. Low temperatures coupled with dangerous wind chills enhance the effect on the body and can put your pup at further risk of frostbite, hypothermia or even death.
When taking your dog outside to relieve himself or to get some exercise; be sure to make it quick and as brief as possible. Every moment that your dog's ears, nose, and paw pads are exposed is potentially harmful.
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Provide Plenty of Food and Water - Your dog uses more energy and burns more calories during the colder winter months. Therefore, it is important to make sure you have plenty of water and additional food available.
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Use Proper Outerwear Protection - It is important for ALL dogs to have proper outwear, even those bred for colder climates. If you have a short-haired breed, puppy, or older dog a winter coat is a must!
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| Photo Credit: www.dailymail.co.uk Check out Hugh Jackman's adorable Frenchie in his coat! |
Protect Paw Pads From Salt - This time of year, our sidewalks and streets are full of artificial salt helping to melt the snow and prevent us from slipping and falling on the ice. This artificial salt...while helpful to us...is not good for our canine friends. The salt can irritate and cut your dog's paw pads, which can be painful and cause infection. Be sure to outfit your dog with appropriate boots or some type of protective footwear.
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Keep Antifreeze Away - Antifreeze is a common household agent intended to lower the freezing point of water-based liquids. The most common use of antifreeze during this time of year is in our cars to prevent the coolant in your car from freezing. No matter what your use, it is important to keep this chemical out of your pet's reach. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which many dogs find tasty. Antifreeze can poison and even kill your pet, so it's important to keep away!
We hope you found some helpful tips in this post! STAY WARM!!
Love,
A & A
