Winter Dog Care

In many areas winter dog care is essential. It can be a season of ice, snow, wind and bitter cold. Keep your dog happy, healthy and warm through the wintry months by following these guidelines.

Pets are happier and tend to stay healthier when kept indoors. If it is impossible to keep your dog indoors take great measures to insure he is kept warm. If you have a dog house make sure he has plenty of bedding for warmth and a water resistant flap over the door to block out the chilling winds. Check the house for drafts and make sure the house is large enough for him to sit and lay down comfortably but small enough to keep in his body heat. The floor should be raised off the ground and covered with straw or cedar shavings. The house should not be facing the wind. Your dog may be more comfortable wearing a sweater.

If your dog spends alot of time outside he will need more food because he will expend more energy trying to stay warm. Check your dogs food regularly. Make sure your dogs water has not frozen and is fresh. When outside use plastic bowls instead of metal so your pet's tongue will not freeze to his bowl. Try to have a neighbor check on your dog as NO pet should be left outside unsupervised for lenghty periods of time.

Other outside perils exist other than the cold weather. If you are walking your dog be aware that the salt and other chemicals used to melt ice and snow can irritate your dogs paw pads. After a walk or if you think he has walked on any salt wipe his feet with a damp cloth to remove the chemicals before he licks them as the chemicals can irratate your dog's mouth and tongue.

Antifreeze is probably the most dangerous chemical to your dog. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals. Make sure your dog is not in a location where he can not get access to any antifreeze. Don't leave your pet where cars have parked and don't let him lick any standing water outside that could possibly have antifreeze in it. Antifreeze avoidance is one of most important winter dog care tips. Even if your dog is indoors most of the time remember Antifreeze is deadly so be very careful on your winter walks.

It is always better to keep your dog inside with you. Dogs are social animals and crave companionship. If you can not keep your dog indoors bring him to us at Dogs In Paradise Dog Day Care where he can run and play in a climate controlled open area with his playmates. Never again worry about him being cold and alone while you are at work.

Now that you know about winter dog care see our other Caring For Your Dog links below.

Caring For Your Dog Caring For Your Dog In The Summer

Back to Home Page from Winter Dog Care