Winter is here, and while it may not be the most enjoyable time of year for humans, it can be especially tough on our furry friends. Dogs don't naturally have the ability to regulate their body temperature like humans do, so they need extra care when temperatures start to drop. Follow this winter safety guide and keep your dog safe during this cold season!
Keep your dog hydrated.
Your dog is a living, breathing creature. Like humans, they need water to stay hydrated and healthy. But unlike humans, dogs can't tell you when they are thirsty or thirsty enough--so it's up to you as an owner to keep your pup properly hydrated throughout the day.
If you've ever taken care of a baby or toddler before (and let's be honest: who hasn't?), then this is something that will come naturally for you: just like young children require frequent sips of water throughout the day so that their little bodies can function properly, so too do older dogs require frequent access to fresh water in order for them not only survive but thrive!
Prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
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Keep your dog warm.
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Make sure they have a warm place to sleep.
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Ensure that they have a coat or sweater that keeps them warm, and make sure it fits properly so that no skin is exposed.
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Do not leave your dog outside for long periods of time in cold weather without proper clothing on. If you're going out with them, dress them up in something thick enough for the weather!
Protect your dog's eyes from the sun.
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Wear sunglasses.
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Wear a hat, preferably one that shades the back of your dog's neck as well.
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Use sunscreen. This can be applied to the fur around their nose, ears and belly button for extra protection against harmful rays (just be sure not to get it in their eyes).
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Use parasols or umbrellas when you're outside with your pup on sunny days--this will prevent them from getting sunburned too!
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Face masks are also great for keeping out UV rays while allowing air flow so they don't overheat while running around outside having fun under the sun!
If none of those options sound appealing then try getting creative with some homemade solutions like tying on a bandana or cap under their chin; these are just as effective at keeping direct sunlight off sensitive areas like eyelids while still allowing plenty of airflow through them so there's less chance of overheating either way!
Watch for respiratory problems, especially during inclement weather.
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Watch for respiratory problems, especially during inclement weather.
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Signs of respiratory distress include:
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Breathing difficulties (e.g., labored breathing or difficulty breathing)
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Coughing and nasal discharge (especially if it's greenish)
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Excessive mucus production
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Lethargy (lack of energy)
Loss of appetite or weight loss
Fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit in dogs with no other symptoms; fever over 104 degrees Fahrenheit in cats with no other symptoms; pale gums (usually a sign that the animal is dehydrated).
Give your dog a bath before the first snow hits.
It's important to give your dog a bath before the first snow hits. This will help keep them clean, and may even prevent any skin infections or allergies that could be caused by dirt and dust getting trapped in their fur.
If you've never bathed your dog before, don't worry--it's not as hard as it sounds! Here are some tips for how to do it:
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Make sure all of the supplies are ready before starting: shampoo, towels (or an old t-shirt), brush/comb/brushless shaver if needed (depending on breed), flea prevention products if needed (again depending on breed). Also make sure there is water available nearby so that if something goes wrong during bathing time we can quickly rinse off any soap residue before it dries onto our pup's fur!
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Start by wetting down their coat thoroughly with warm water from either a bathtub faucet or hose attachment at least five minutes prior so they'll know what's coming next without being shocked when wetness hits them unexpectedly while being held upside down in midair over said basin filled halfway up with sudsing liquid soap mixture containing ingredients like coconut oil extractions which helps remove dirt buildup without stripping away natural oils found naturally occurring within each individual pelt.*
Consider a new bed or blanket for your dog when the cold sets in.
When it comes to choosing a new bed or blanket for your dog, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, consider whether you want something waterproof and easy to clean; this will be especially important if you live in an area where it rains often. Second, make sure the material is soft and warm--but not too warm! If the material is too thick or fluffy, it could cause problems with overheating during warmer months. Finally, think about how easy it will be for you (or another family member) to take care of these items when they need washing--will they fit into a washing machine? Can they be thrown into an outdoor clothesline? Or do they require professional dry cleaning services?
Be extra careful when walking on icy sidewalks and streets, especially at night or during early morning hours when there are not as many people around to help if something goes wrong.
You and your dog will be safer if you use a leash when walking on the street or sidewalk. You should also keep an eye out for other people, pets, and vehicles. If your dog has a history of running away from home and getting into trouble, it's best not to let him off-leash in winter. Even if you have a fenced yard where he can't escape from, there are still dangers such as freezing water and icy surfaces that could cause injury or death if he steps on them barefoot--and even worse things like being hit by cars or eaten by predators!
With some careful planning, you can provide great care for your four-legged family member all year long
As a dog owner, you know that your furry friend is always ready to play and go on adventures. But what about when the weather gets cold?
The winter months can be challenging for dogs who aren't used to being outside in freezing temperatures--and even if they are used to it, there are still some things you should be prepared for. With some careful planning, however, you can provide great care for your four-legged family member all year long.
Conclusion
You know your dog best, and you're the one who can make sure he or she stays safe. The best way to do this is by being aware of the risks, planning ahead and taking action when necessary. As long as you keep these tips in mind for all seasons, there's no reason why your pooch should be any less happy than he or she already is--and that's what counts!
