Most dog owners would agree that summer is their favourite season. The warm weather, sunny days and outdoor activities make it a great time to take your pup for walks, throw the ball in the backyard, or let them run around outside with their friends.
But as we all know, winter is inevitable, and winter in Canada is quite harsh. Just as you need to take extra care of yourself in the cold weather, your fury baby too needs a little more TLC to stay happy, healthy, and safe. While looking after your dogs during winter may seem daunting, you must do everything in your capacity to ensure your beloved pup is protected.
Here’re some tips to help you provide extra care to your dog in winter:
Ensure Your Pup Spends Most Time Inside the House
Dogs get lost easily during the cold because snow covers everything outside, reducing dogs’ sense of smell. Not only that, if it is too cold for you to enjoy the outdoors, it naturally is too cold for your dog to step outside too. It is best to keep your dog inside the house for these reasons. Plus, make sure they stay warm in a properly ventilated area. Remember that a bit of negligence can cause your pet to fall ill, necessitating a rush to one of the vet clinics near you.
Create a Humid Home Environment
A cozy and humid home environment is vital for animals in winter because it helps prevent dry and flaky skin. On top of that, it is beneficial for your dog’s respiratory system and yourself. We recommend using a humidifier to keep the air in your house warm and humid.
Wash Your Dog’s Feet
Make sure to clean your dog’s paws after every trip outside. You could make it routine to inspect every nook and cranny, especially between their toes. Leaving behind any residue may result in paw cracks, irritation, and more.
Protect Your Dog’s Paws
Most vets recommend massaging your dog’s paws with petroleum jelly or any other vet-recommended paw protectant to ensure that your dog’s feet are safe and protected. If not petroleum jelly, cover their feet with socks or booties. They are both practical and cute.
Let Your Dog’s Hair Grow
It is not a good idea to shave your dog’s hair during the colder months. You should let your dog grow more fur as it keeps them warm in winter. The most that you should do during the colder months is give them a little trim as it can prevent salt crystals or ice balls from clinging to their fur. If your dog has short hair, you can cover him up with a sweater or a turtleneck.
Bathe Your Dog Only When Necessary
Dogs love water, and they love bathing. During the winters, however, try to avoid bathing them as regularly. It would be best if you washed them only when necessary. For example, it is enough to clean your pup once a week in winter. Excessive hot water exposure may result in dry and flaky skin, leading to irritations. Also, use a vet-recommended moisturizing shampoo so that your dog’s coat stays nourished all through the winter.
Get Rid of Any Antifreeze Spills
Antifreeze is very harmful to dogs. As such, you must take extra care using them around your dog. It is better to use products with propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol. Ensure that your dog has no access to any area where you suspect any antifreeze spillage.
Feed Your Dog More
Our food intake levels increase in winter because our body needs more energy to stay warm. The same holds when it comes to pets. As such, it is good to feed your dog a little more in cold weather.
Consult a Vet in Stratford
Caring for a pet during winter is no easy feat, but with the tips above, you’ll ensure your fur fellow is well-protected and happy. If you suspect that your dog is ill or if it presents abnormal symptoms, make sure to take her to the vet clinic.
Romeo Pet Hospital is a leading vet clinic in Stratford, Ontario. We offer pet diagnostics, examination, treatment, surgeries, and more services.
