Winter days are here and it simply means that we will be dealing with hazards such as ice and antifreeze. These two risks are potentially deadly for your best bud—your dog. Even other chemicals and salt that are used to melt snow and ice on your pathway can irritate the pads of your dog’s feet. So, how do you protect your dog this winter season?
Here are a few tips that will help you keep your dogs safe during the cold days:
- Shelter
If you do not have a heated shelter for your furry best friend, then let him or her stay inside your home. Don’t be mislead by the thought that his or her abundance of fur is enough to endure the cold weather. Yes, some dogs like Siberian huskies and Alaskan malamutes have dense double-coat fur that can withstand very cold weather but not all are like them.
- Clothing
It is best for dogs that have less or no fur (e.g. Chihuahuas, Greyhounds, Whippets and Miniature Pinschers) to wear dog sweaters or jackets. However, some dogs do not want to wear clothing. In this case you need to put extra effort in keeping them warm like letting them stay indoors instead of their outdoor house even if it is heated.
Additionally, you may want to invest dog boots as the pads of their feet may be sensitive to salt and other chemicals you put to melt the ice or snow. They may also lick the chemicals from their feet—dogs’ instinct, you know! Also, boots will also protect them from the hidden sharp objects in the snow.
- Beware of Antifreeze!
Antifreeze chemicals bear sweet taste that dogs and cats (even children) are attracted to. Be sure that you wipe out traces of spills and keep these poisonous chemical out of their reach.
- Careful Attention
Pay careful attention to your friend if he or she is upset, shivering or is developing signs of hypothermia. Just in case, contact your veterinarian immediately.