Its cold…. tips to prepare your dog for inclement weather
It’s>If you’re a dog owner who lives in a climate where it gets extremely cold, then you must protect your dog. Just like you wouldn’t go outside without a coat, it is absolutely paramount that you prepare your dog for the cold weather as well. Here are some tips:
First of all, you must not only pay attention to the temperature, you must also be cognizant of the snow, moisture and icy conditions. In fact, wind-chill is very dangerous and dogs can get frostbitten. Therefore, limit your dog’s exposure as much as possible.
Second, don’t allow your dog to sleep in drafty areas or on a cold floor as this can cause them to become ill. Instead place their beds or blankets in draft free areas.
Third, if you keep dog outside, here’s some special tips that you should follow:
* Allow your dog’s coat to grow thicker in the winter months. This will enable them to more easily adapt to the changing temperature and provide them with an extra layer of protection.
* Utilize bowls made of plastic instead of metal so that their tongues don’t stick to the bowl and always feed your dog more food and always provide them with fresh, unfrozen water. Outdoor dogs expend more energy than indoor dogs because it takes a lot of energy to stay warm and need this extra food to energize them.
* Provide your dog with a doghouse that is large enough so that they can comfortably turn around in but small enough to avoid drafts. The floor should be moderately raised by a few inches and covered with fresh straw or cedar shavings. Be careful to face it away from the wind and cover the doorway with a durable and heave plastic or waterproof burlap.
* Always bring your dog inside when the weather drops to uncomfortable lows as keeping them outside, even in a doghouse could be quite detrimental to his health.
Fourth, when you send your dog outside to relieve themselves, you should keep these sessions as short as possible. Be on the lookout for signs that they are cold including wining, panting, shaking, shivering, etc.
Fifth, when you take your pet outside for a walk and find that it is very cold, put them on appropriate doggie gear. For instance, you can put them on a sweater or coat and even walking shoes so that they are better able to regulate their body temperatures. If you don’t put them on shoes, wipe off their paws when you get home to remove any salt or other irritants.
Sixth, make sure that you remove any poisonous substances like Antifreeze and Salt from your dog’s pathways. For instance, dogs are especially attracted to the sweet taste of antifreeze and will inevitably drink it which can be deadly. In addition, salt and other chemicals can irritate their paws and mouth when they come into contact with it. Your best bet is to use de-icing products that are dog safe.
In conclusion, if it very important that you protect your dog from cold weather. Not only is he a part of the family but you owe it to him to protect him. By doing the above mentioned tips, you can rest assured that your dog will be prepared for the cold weather and won’t suffer irreparable harm.
