Extra Care During Winter Months
User Name: TheBestDogTips
Parent Forum: General Dog Forum
Posted: 11/12/2009 6:53 PM
Login to Rate this thread
As the temperature drops and the snow piles up, dog lovers need to take
special precautions to protect their canine companions from winter's
dangers. Bark Busters, the world's largest dog training company, has
compiled winter safety tips based on the experience of the company's
worldwide network of dog behavioral therapists.
Beware of ice, snow and cold temperatures. While many dogs with proper
shelter can be safe in outside temperatures down to 20 degrees
Fahrenheit, puppies, smaller dogs and older dogs should not be left
outdoors when temperatures fall below 40 degrees. A shorthaired dog can
quickly become chilled after leaving a warm house, so dress him in a
sweater before heading outside. Always be sure your dog is wearing his
identification tags, and keep him on leash. During a snowstorm, a dog
can lose his ability to scent and thus can go astray. A loose dog can
also fall through ice or get hit by a vehicle (icy roads make it harder
for cars to stop). Finally, don't leave your pet in a vehicle during
cold weather. A car in winter is like a refrigerator, holding in the
cold and possibly causing the dog to freeze to death.
Keep older, arthritic dogs inside. These dogs should not be left
outdoors under any circumstances. Escort the older dog outside for
toileting. If the yard has snow or ice, use a leash since he can easily
slip and hurt himself.
Watch for signs of frostbite and injury. Frostbite causes serious
damage to the sensitive tissues of a dog's extremities, such as his
ears, paws and tail. If you suspect your dog may be getting
frostbitten, take him into a warm place right away. Soak the affected
area in lukewarm water for 20 minutes and 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 t