Baby, it’s colder outside. The holiday season with trips over the river and through the woods to Grandma’s are quickly approaching. So, let’s pause a moment and think about our four legged friends. Here are some ideas to protect them this winter.
What to Wear
Until recently, I had large dogs with long coats and laughed at the striped winter sweaters of my friends’ small or skinny pets. Now, I have my own fashionable pooch, a Havanese. While I still find puppy fashion adorably laughable, I also understand the importance of a four legged winter wardrobe. For larger dogs, it’s often a question of coat. Many large dogs, built for the cold, can even experience overheating when dressed. For smaller or thinner breeds, clothing is often recommended to avoid hypothermia and to maintain potty training habits. If your dog has accidents this winter, a sweater may be a simple solution.
Paw Protection
I’ve never received as much attention as when we brought our puppy downtown wearing his red boots. In the Northeast, it’s common for deicers to be used on sidewalks. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to deicers can chemically burn your dog’s paws. While winter boots are best, they aren’t always tolerated. If they’re not a solution for your family, learn how to protect your pet’s paws reading Cesar’s Way. Here, Cesar explains the importance of a winter paw routine. Regular nail clippings, fur clippings around the paws, and applications of balm will decrease the risk of injury.
Ingestion Dangers
From antifreeze to holiday decorations, poisons are a danger to our pets. In addition to chocolate treats, here are other poisons to be aware of this winter:
- Antifreeze: Check the ingredients in your car’s antifreeze. If it contains ethylene glycol, this could be fatal. Dogs enjoy the taste of antifreeze and small amounts can be deadly. Instead, use a product with propylene glycol such as Star brite Bio-Safe.
- Potpourri: Chemicals are often used in these dry mixes and liquid potpourri can be a burning hazard. Keep out of reach.
- Holiday Plants: Poinsettias, holly, mistletoe, and Christmas trees are beautiful, but these plants can make your dog sick and several can cause internal puncturing. Elevate these plants. Even a Christmas tree can be raised using a beautifully wrapped wooden box.
Our dogs are a part of our family. By taking a little time to prepare your pup for the frigid temperatures and holiday festivities, you can rest knowing he is comfy and safe.