Six Cold Weather Tips for Dog Owners
Provided by Member's Mark Exceed
With colder weather right around the corner, it's important to consider your dog's
health and well-being. These six tips offer easy, effective ways to make the changing
seasons pleasant for the both of you!
Don't Feed Your Dog Table Scraps
When families gather for the holidays to enjoy big meals, some people may be tempted
to offer household pets bits of the humans' feast. But that's not a great idea.
Table scraps will not provide the nutritionally balanced diet your pet requires,
and they can cause unhealthy weight gain, too.
Never Give Your Dog Bones
Bones can be dangerous for your pet because they may splinter and lodge in his mouth
or throat.
Protect Your Dog Against Frostbite
To avoid frostbite, remove ice and snow from your dog's paws and coat right away.
Frostbite occurs most often on the ears, tail and feet, and once an animal has suffered
frostbite, he is more susceptible to repeated freezing. Make "paw checks" a regular
part of your winter-care routine. Watch for salt and other de-icers that may also
irritate a dog's foot pads. If you think your dog has frostbite, contact your veterinarian
as soon as possible.
"Winterize" Your Dog
Don’t forget to "winterize" your dog during harsh winter months. Keep him in prime
condition with proper nourishment, and he’ll better withstand the rigors of winter.
Travel Right With Your Dog
If you're traveling over the holidays and taking your pet along for the car ride,
remember that it's best to keep your pet in a carrier large enough for him to turn
around in without being cramped. Or you could try a special pet seat belt for your
dog if you don't want to travel with a pet carrier.
Beef Up Your Outside Dog
Through cold, snow and winter fun, your active canine friend needs extra care. Outdoor
dogs need more calories as the temperature drops — and don't forget water. You might
consider adding water to your dog's dry food to help ensure his water intake is
sufficient. An outdoor dog needs a little extra "fleshiness" during harsh winter
months to cut down on the heat leaving his body.
