Changing your winter routine to suit your doggy's needs doesn't have to be hard. These simple steps will help you take special attention to things you already do to keep you pooch safe.
For some of us, cold weather is regarded as a mere nuisance. Luckily, PetMD has compiled a list of tips to protect your pet from the dangers of winter.
1. Salty Solution
You are probably accustomed to salt on the sidewalks and roads. Protect your pet's paws, and keep him warm during walks, by outfitting him with booties.
2. In or Out?
You might want to keep her indoors during the freezing months, especially if you live in bitterly cold areas.
3. Joy Ride
Cars are particularly attractive to animals in the winter-time, especially frigid cats that love to climb up under the hood and curl up on the warm motor. Avoid such accidents by tapping your car's hood before starting the vehicle.
4. No More Frozen Dinners!
Keep an eye on the water bowls and make sure they haven’t turned into little skating rinks for fleas (boo, fleas!)
5. Latest Fad Diet?
Dogs and cats also exercise much less when they do go outside, so you may need to adjust the amount of food accordingly.
6. Bare Naked Truth
Be a pal and provide your dog with a warm, dry, and draft free shelter outside; the shelter should also comply with any state laws that apply.
7. Frosty the Biting Snowman
Get special booties, coats, and maybe a hat for your pet during her walks, and look for early warning signs of frostbite such as firm, waxy skin and blisters.
8. The Deadly Drink
The worst of all the wintertime chemical spills is antifreeze, which often leaks from a car's radiator…it is extremely deadly — even the smallest sip can be fatal.
Snuggle up, keep your pet warm and safe, and sooner than you can say “Jack Russell,” we’ll all be hitting the beaches for some summertime fun.
Hopefully, these tips will open you eyes about other dangers you otherwise might have overlooked, like antifreeze spills and salty roads! Take these steps into consideration the next time you're spending time with your pup. Who knows, you might just end up saving his life this winter.
For more information on winter safety for your pooch, visit PetMD.
