Keeping Pets cosy

| Print | By | December 5, 2008 8:42 AM

Even if you're in California or Florida, these days winter is winter. In my human world, that means there's no way out of the three tire replacements I am forced to bite the bullet and pay for today to ensure safety on icy and snow-laden roads. Ouch. In My Sheltie, Maxi's world, it means sporting an extra coat.

Now who could think up such a cool idea? No need to go and buy doggie clothes. When his system detects that it's getting chilly outside, he just...grows an extra coat! Of course, these extra coats have a little difficulty adjusting to the heat settings on our thermostat indoors, so shedding is noticeable at this time of year. But when Maxi hits the nippy air and his paws dig into the snow drifts, there's no happiness like the winter comfort he was made for on those blustery isles of Shetland to the far north of Scotland.

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Our friends at Bark Busters sent along some great tips for your pet during winter:

Beware of cold temperatures. While many dogs can be safe in outside temperatures down to 20 degrees Fahrenheit with proper shelter (see below), puppies, smaller dogs and older dogs should not be left outdoors when the temperature falls below 40 degrees. Shorthaired dogs, such as Chihuahuas and greyhounds, can become immediately chilled after leaving the warm house, so they will need a sweater put on before going outside.

Keep older, arthritic dogs inside. These dogs should not be left outside under any circumstances. Escort older dogs outside for toileting. If the yard has snow or ice, use a leash since older dogs can easily fall and seriously injure themselves.

Watch for signs of frostbite and injury. Dogs’ ears, paws and tails are especially susceptible to frostbite. Initially, frostbitten tissue may appear pale or gray in color, and the area will be cold and hard to the touch. As the area thaws, it may become red. In severe frostbite, within several days the tissue will start to appear black. If you suspect frostbite, bring your dog into a warm location and soak the affected area in lukewarm water for about 20 minutes. Contact your veterinarian. If your dog plays on ice or hard, frozen dirt, his paws are susceptible to cuts as they slide across these rough surfaces. Watch for chewing at his paws during long walks or periods of play. Always wipe your dog’s feet after a walk in the snow to remove ice and salt deposits from the road. Salt irritates a dog’s paws and can be toxic if ingested. Use only pet-safe ice melt.

Keep an eye out for hypothermia. If you notice shivering, lethargy, low heart rate and unresponsiveness, bring your dog into a warm area, place a light blanket over him, and call your veterinarian.

Eliminate the possibility of poisoning. Unfortunately, dogs like the sweet taste of antifreeze, which can cause sickness or death if ingested. Make certain that all antifreeze containers are well out of reach of dogs, and thoroughly clean any spills immediately.

Provide a protective shelter. If your dog stays outside much of the time in the winter, make certain that his doghouse meets certain minimum criteria. It needs to be raised a couple of inches off the frozen ground or concrete. The inside needs to have a blanket, cedar shavings or straw, which should be changed frequently to keep them warm and dry. Add a flap to the door, and face the doghouse away from the weather. The size of the doghouse should be large enough so your dog can sit and stand, but small enough so his body heat will be retained in the house.

Supply fresh water. Use a plastic water bowl to ensure the dog’s tongue does not get stuck to cold metal, and change the water often to keep it from freezing.

Provide an appropriate amount of food. If your dog remains active in winter, he’ll burn more calories in the cold—and needs about 10 percent more food to compensate. If your dog becomes less active in the winter, try to keep him from gaining extra weight by cutting back his food and making sure you continue taking him for walks and playing with him.

Further train your dog during the winter while inside. Dogs that spend less time outside during the winter may become lethargic—or, in some cases, may become hyper. The best way to keep your dog active or to use his excess energy is to cause him to think. Providing 10‑15 minutes of training daily on basics such as sit, stay, come, and walking on leash will energize the lethargic dog and cause the hyper dog to be more tired. Providing 10‑15 minutes of workout twice a day will be even better.

Thanks Bark Busters!

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Comments (1)

Vicki December 6, 2008 10:00 AM

Well I get an A+ for treatment of my animals in winter or any season. But this is very good information for people with pets. A good guideline for them. Thanks for posting this helpful information.

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