Protecting Your Dogs Health In Winter

For those of us in the northern hemisphere the days are getting shorter and temperatures are dropping. The change of seasons brings new concerns for the dog owner to prepare for and protect your dog’s health.

Dogs feel heat loss the same way we do including the wind-chill which brings temperatures well below what the thermometer reads, especially short haired breeds.

Owners with these breeds should consider having a coat or sweater with a wool lining for your dog handy for spending time outside or in case the power goes out. If the area you life in gets extremely cold you should restrict your pets’ time outside to avoid health problems or frostbite in your dog’s vulnerable areas such as ears, feet and tail. Be aware of the signs of hypothermia, including: shivering, pale or blue gums, enlarged pupils, decreased heart rate, body temperature below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you have an outside dog make sure they have a comfortable warm dog house that is rasied off the ground and has straw to keep warm. The dog house should be big enough to turn around in but small enough to keep the dog’s body heat in. It can help to put a burlap covering over the door and face the door away from prevailing winds.

If you have an older dog, whether an inside dog or an outside dog, they may have arthritis and my benefit from a heat pad.

During winter cold, dogs need more calories to keep their body temperature up and maintain their health. Increase the amount of protein in your dog’s diet during these months. Provide plenty of fresh water during winter, don’t depend on the snow to provide for your dogs hydration. If the water freezes make sure to change it more often. For outdoor dogs use a non-metal feeding dish, a dog’s tongue can end up getting frozen to a metal bowl.

Ice can encrust itself on your dogs paws, legs, and underbelly after walking in the snow. This leads to painful splits and areas of bleeding so it is a good idea to dry your dog off after a walk. Another problem is chemical salts that are used to melt snow. These can cause severe irritation to your dogs’ pads and if your dog licks those areas they can make your dog very sick.

Leaving a dog in the car in the winter can be just as deadly as leaving them in a car during the hot summer. Cars can become an ice box in a very short time causing your dog to freeze to death.

Your dog’s health is more vulnerable in winter time. Watch out for respiratory infections and colds which can manifest during cold weather and consult a vet if necessary.

Involve your dog in activities to relieve the boredom that can arise from winter confinement. Most dogs want to spend time with people whether the weather is cold or not.

Stock up on essentials for your dog in case winter storms make it difficult to get out for a few days. These essentials include food, treats, medications and first aid items. And if you travel any distance from home make a plan with a trusted neighbor in case you end up getting stranded away from home.

Clear away any snow or ice on the path to their preferred potty place. If necessary, you can scatter cat litter on your steps to provide some traction.

For more information on how to protect your dog’s health visit: Dog Health Guide