While winter reminds you of cosy beds, a mug of hot chocolate, and warm feet, your dog gets all comfy around the house too. Winter is a season that is loved, but it can get tricky for our four-legged friends. Like how we take care of ourselves, It is important to keep pets safe and healthy during the winter months.
As the temperatures plummet in different regions, winter safety for dogs will necessitate some urgent changes to your pet’s routines to reflect the weather. Here are our top tips to keep your pets safe and comfortable while it’s cold outside.
1.Keep them warm
Just because your pooch has fur, it does not mean that they do not feel cold! Provide your dog with warm garments or keep them warm by spreading a blanket. You can even place extra layers of a fluffy blanket beneath them for added coziness.
2.Do not skip water!
During winter, pets can get dehydrated like humans. Always take a bottle of water on walks, and make sure your pet is getting enough water both inside and outside the house. To check if your pet is dehydrated, gently grasp a portion of your pet’s loose skin on the back of its neck. Your dog is hydrated if the skin jumps back into place, else it’s time to give them water immediately!
3.Keep that tummy full
When your dog is well-fed, its body will naturally stay a little warmer than when they haven’t eaten enough. You can give them healthy De Dot treats in between meals to keep them chewing and active! You can also warm up food before serving it to your pooch.
4.Avoid long walks, but keep them active indoors
Keep shorter walks outside, but encourage more playtime inside. This is recommended, especially early in the morning or late at night when temperatures are at their lowest. Even though dogs have a higher average body temperature than humans, it is still important to keep your dog safe from harsh weather.
5.Prevent itchy skin
Dogs can get dry skin, especially if they are cooped up indoors when the temperatures drop. During winter, it isn’t necessary to give your dog a bath every day. But using a soothing shampoo during bath time can help relieve itching. Another remedy to consider is applying coconut oil to your dog’s coat. Most importantly, utilise a humidifier around your home to increase the humidity in the air.
6.Short pee breaks
Reduce bathroom breaks to quick visits outside rather than long walks. Use pee pads on very cold nights to prevent your pet from holding it and developing urinary infections.
Most importantly, keep an eye on your dog and look for signals of discomfort towards the weather. This winter, choose to keep your doggo’s health a top priority. Remember, if the temperature is a little too cool for you, it’s likely to be the same for your dogs!