Winter Safety

 

❄ Brrr, Winter is here. ❄

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Winter Safety & Comfort for Dogs

Wherever you are reading this from, we can probably both agree that winter is cold, like REALLY cold. I now live in Canada and we experience extremely cold weather in Winter. This weather presents lots of challenges, especially for dog owners. Familiarity with cold weather and the hazards that come with it can keep you and your dog safe while allowing each of you to enjoy the great (and if its snowy, white) outdoors.

Temperature Related Conditions

Dogs young to old can have health conditions or diseases that make them more susceptible to cold temperatures, whether wet or dry. In particular, things like Arthritis, Diabetes, Cushing’s, skin conditions and Thyroid conditions. All these afflictions and more can make our pups feel bad, especially when the weather is cold, not to mention seasonal bugs and germs making the rounds. Any illnesses that affect our dogs temperature need to be carefully managed all year round. Especially in the winter, so what can be done? Try and keep your dog warm, dry and safe, and of course, if needed, take them to the Vet so they can be treated if in a poor condition.

In extreme cold, Frostbite and Hypothermia can be extremely dangerous risks, be sure to know the symptoms of each and check your pet regularly. Some symptoms can hide, so please check your dogs skin beneath their fur incase symptoms are harder to spot.

Frostbite Symptoms:

• Coldness: The skin may feel cold or brittle when touched. 
• Skin discoloration: The affected area may appear pale, blue, or gray. 
• Blisters or ulcers: The affected area may develop blisters or skin ulcers. 
• Pain: The affected area may be painful or tender when touched. 
• Swelling: The affected area may swell. 
• Blackened or dead skin: In severe cases, the skin may turn black, indicating that it has died. 
• Redness: As the skin thaws, it may become red and inflamed. 
• Discharge: The affected area may have moist discharge. 
• Visible ice crystals: Ice crystals may be visible on the affected area.

Hypothermia Symptoms:

• Coldness/Shivering: Being cold to the point of shivering is often the first sign of hypothermia. 
• Lethargy: Dogs with hypothermia may seem tired or unwilling to play. 
• Lower body temperature: Normal human body temperature is 98.6°F (37°C). Normal body temperature for dogs and cats is 101.0 to 102.5°F (38.3 to 39.2°C).
• Shallow breathing: Watch for changes in your dog’s breathing. 
• Loss of consciousness: In severe cases, dogs might become unresponsive or lose consciousness. 
• Pale skin or gums: Pale skin or gums can be a sign of hypothermia. 
• Fixed, dilated pupils: Fixed, dilated pupils can be a sign of hypothermia, especially in severe cases. 

Keep in mind that all pets are individuals, some may run a little hotter or colder on a day to day basis. a good rule of thumb is if your pet’s temperature rises above 104°F (40.0°C) or falls below 99°F (37.2°C) then it is best to take them to a Vet. If you’re not sure, you can still see a Vet to be on the safe side, its always better to be safe than sorry.

Speaking of skin, think of your dogs noses and paw pads, cold, dry weather can dry out sensitive parts on your dogs skin, so be sure to take steps to keep them warm and soothed, some good tips for this are:

❄Hydrate your dog with plenty of water.
❄Avoid salt and chemicals, or clean paws thoroughly after exposure.
❄Watch out for hidden rocks and ice crystals.
❄Trim hair/fur in pads for added protection and prevent build up of ice and snow.
❄Monitor paws and nose for dryness, cracking, or irritation.
❄Trim nails, consider boots, remember, cold temps = dry, cracked paws. Use paw balms/moisturizers to soothe and protect them! (These can usually be used on noses too!)

Here in Canada, there are a number of outdoor dogs. In the extreme weather, you should bring your dog/dogs inside if at all possible. If it is not, its good to follow this checklist:

• Access to a warm, wind and waterproof shelter – heated is preferable.
• Dry, clean bedding is vital. This will help your dog keep warm and comfortable and can ease any aching joints. Regularly check and change bedding out.
• Use heated bowls. Or keep the bowls in a heated shelter, this will prevent the freezing of food and water.
• Feed more if necessary, if you notice your dog dropping weight because of using up bodily resources to keep warm, upping their food can help them regulate this need and keep them at a safe weight.

Salt & Chemical Hazards

As briefly mentioned above, salt and other chemicals can greatly affect our animals in a negative way. Salt, sand, grit and other ice-stabilizers or melts are a pretty nasty skin irritant. Always ensure you thoroughly clean and dry your dogs feet after coming indoors, this may extend to other body parts also depending on your pets height, weight and individual needs.

A NOTE ON ANTIFREEZE

Antifreeze is a chemical used to remove ice from cars, however, this handy cocktail is pretty deadly but sweet. The sweet scent and taste appeals to animals and sadly a small amount can be fatal. This is especially true for small dogs and animals. There are safer alternates that do the same thing and are less lethal, keep that in mind when shopping for anti-freeze products. Otherwise, cleaning up spills and keeping it out of reach/preventing access should work. If you suspect your dog or pet has been poisoned by drinking Antifreeze, take them to the Vet *IMMEDIATELY*. Acting fast can save their life.

The Great Outdoors

Imagine it, you’re outside in the snow, enjoying your walk… everything is peaceful… then you slip and drop your leash. Your dog runs off startled and no matter how many times you call, they either don’t come or they run around you thinking its a game.

Basic obedience is extremely useful, especially in cold weather. Putting the training in BEFORE you need it is key to being successful. Cues that are useful for your dog to know and be reliably good at are:

• Recall (coming when called) – If the worst happens and you slip or they get away from you, you know it is temporary and they’ll return.
• Loose Leash/Polite walking skills – If your dog doesn’t pull you like a train, this makes all walks safer, and more enjoyable!
• Leave it – Handy for any surprise items in the snow, or any dangerous pathways/hidden or frozen water.

Having a dog that is comfortable with having their body handled and wiped down too is very crucial, make it a positive experience. Keep towels and treats near the door, look into cooperative care and strive to make foot/body wiping a regular, positive, feel good thing.

If you can’t trust your dog to come when you call them, but would like them to have more freedom, longlines are incredible pieces of equipment to have on hand. They can reduce pulling as your dog can keep their natural gait and you can keep your pace, they ensure you know where your dog is, and they keep everyone safe, just be sure to stay tangle free! I highly recommend this longline available on Amazon.

You want something comfortable that won’t burn your hands if your dog pulls, and something visible and waterproof, these particular longlines check every box. I would encourage you to wear gloves with them though as the snow makes them very cold.

You can check out their other colours and sizes through the links below:

Black 20ft

Orange 20ft

Orange 32ft

Muzzles are also good for preventing your dog from picking up hazardous materials concealed by the snow. For more choices on longlines, leashes and muzzles (like the one pictured above) visit Trust Your Dog.

Winter walks are lovely, chilly, but lovely. Just make sure you wrap up as much as needed and that you do the same for your dog! Of course some dogs need more winter prep and help than others, so, if possible, keep their fur a little longer in Winter to offer more protection. Also keep in mind that it may be wise to:

• Keep your dog leashed on walks. (Or use a longline!) Winter is pretty, but it can be deadly, dogs can get easily lost, stranded or fall through ice. Keeping them close to you can keep you both safe in the hazardous winter.
• Not let them eat snow. Or if they simply must, be aware that too much can cause stomach aches and upset, so be aware of that. Not to mention any potentially dangerous objects that may be concealed by the snow.
• Maintain Fur. If your dog has little to no hair, is skinny or underweight, they may benefit from winter wear such as sweaters, coats and boots. If the weather is particularly wet, consider waterproof options as well as warm. On the other hand, long coated dogs will need to be regularly groomed and kept free from hot spots, sores and mats.

In the event of an injury, reassure your dog an provide the appropriate medical care. Even minor injuries can be traumatic so don’t be afraid to reassure and comfort your dog!

Did I forget anything? Share your favourite winter care tips in the comments below!

🐾Stay warm, stay safe and protect your dog this Winter! 🐾

Carefully researched and written by:

Becky Osborne

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