Winter Safety for Pups: Top 5 Tips to Keep Your Furry Friend Warm and Happy

As snow and ice starts to cover the roads and our cars and the salt comes out, it's essential to ensure the safety and well-being of our four-legged friends. Here are the top 5 tips to keep your pups safe and cozy during winter.

1. Mind the Temperature:

One of the most critical aspects of winter safety for pups is understanding the appropriate temperatures for outdoor activities. Dogs can be resilient, but extreme cold can be harmful.

If your pup is smaller and short haired, remember that if you need a jacket or sweater, they likely need a sweater. Dogs with thicker coated and larger bodies might be more resilient to cold, but always keep an eye out for signs your pup is getting too cold regardless of breed. You can see a more comprehensive list of signs of hyperthermia in dogs on the American Kennel Club Website.

As a general rule, if the temperature drops below freezing, it's best to limit outdoor activities and keep your pup indoors. Consider shortening walks and playtime on exceptionally cold days to protect your furry friend from the harsh weather.

2. Choose Dog-Safe Salts:

Winter often means sidewalks and streets are treated with de-icing salts, which can be harmful to your pup's delicate paws. Opt for dog-safe salts like Safe Paw and Safe-T-Pet to melt ice without causing irritation or injury to your pup's paws. You’ll still want to be careful about them eating snow as the active ingredient usually used in pet safe salts is Urea which can give them an upset stomach.

Make sure to check the active ingredients in the salts you use so you know which is the best fit for your pup. You can find more details on the different ingredients used for driveway salts and how they can affect your fuzzy friends here.

Try to avoid walking through heavily salted areas and make sure you regularly wipe your pup's paws after walks to remove any salt residue and prevent discomfort. If you have a dog walker, leave a towel out for them.

If your pup does lick or eat the salts, keep an eye out for symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. Check out the rest of the symptoms on the Pet Poison Control website.

3. Embrace Protective Gear:

Mushers Secret, booties, and jackets can be your pup's best friends during winter outings. Mushers Secret is a paw wax that provides a protective barrier against ice, snow, and salt. Booties not only keep your pup's paws warm but also shield them from harsh elements.

Small and short-haired dogs may benefit from cozy jackets that provide an extra layer of insulation. Ensure the gear fits comfortably to keep your pup warm without restricting movement.

4. Monitor Hydration:

While it may be cold outside, staying hydrated is crucial for your pup's well-being. Dehydration can still occur during winter, especially if your pup is active or spends time in heated indoor spaces. Make sure your furry friend always has access to fresh water. Consider also using a non-spill water bowl in colder temperatures.

5. Create a Warm and Cozy Shelter:

Provide a warm and cozy space for your pup indoors. Ensure that your home is well-heated, and consider setting up a comfortable bed in a draft-free area. You can use draft stoppers if their preferred spot is near a door with a draft.

If your pup spends time outdoors, provide a shelter that protects them from wind, snow, and cold temperatures. Insulate the shelter with blankets or straw for added warmth.

Conclusion:

By following these top 5 tips, you can ensure your pup stays safe, healthy, and happy throughout the winter season. Remember that each pup is unique, so pay attention to their individual needs and adjust your winter care routine accordingly. With a little extra effort, you and your furry friend can enjoy the beauty of winter together.