Winter is here, and we all know it’s time to stock up on eggs, bread and milk, right?
But as the temperature falls, we cannot forget about our four-legged friends. Pets need extra care and attention in winter time despite the fact that they have a built-in fur coat. The following is a guideline for how to combat winter weather and keep your furry companion safe and happy.
- Prior Planning (food, supplies and medications): Before the first flake falls, it is important to plan for snow days. Make sure you have at least one week’s worth of food and supplies for your pet in case you are unable to leave the house. Is your pet on medication or a special diet? It is imperative that you have enough on hand so that your pet’s health doesn’t suffer because of some winter weather. Likewise, if you are traveling by car with your dog, make sure you packed extra food, water, blankets and anything else your dog needs in case you experience travel delays. Always keep a copy of your dog’s current vaccination records (ie, rabies, distemper and bordetella) with you in cause you have to board your pup unexpectly.
- Fur and Skin Care: As the days get shorter and the temperature drops, a dog tends to sed its light summer undercoat and, in its place, grows the heavier winter undercoat. This thicker undercoat helps trap warm air generated by the body close to the skin, and keeps the dog warm. So, what does this mean for you as the pet owner? More brushing!
Tangles and mats are more likely to occur with the thicker undercoat, so it requires more time on your part to brush your dog more often. Can you still have your dog trimmed during winter months? Absolutely! Indoor dogs don’t require the extra undercoat as much as an outdoor pet does, but that doesn’t mean it is OK to have them completely shaved.
For smaller dogs or dogs with short coats, a sweater or coat can help give that extra insulation as long as he or she will let you put one on! However, if you have a longer-coated dog and he/she does wear a coat, just keep an eye on matting in the underarm area. Regular combing will help avoid mats.
Also, colder weather means dry, itchy skin. So, if you bathe your dog, make sure you use a moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. If you have your dog groomed regularly by a professional, it is good idea to make sure your dog has received the bordetella vaccination to help prevent the fatal strain of canine cough (aka, kennel cough). If you board your dog, this vaccine is a must, but most people don’t think about it in terms of grooming. However, it makes perfect sense. Your dog will be in contact with several dogs in a small, confined space. This nasty virus is airborne so better to be safe than sorry.
- Paw Care: Freezing temperatures mean icy conditions. Salt on roadways and sidewalks is corrosive, so imagine what that means for your dog’s paws.
If your budget allows, I suggest investing in pet-friendly de-icers for your driveways and sidewalks. These products are non-toxic, biodegradable and can be purchased at local pet stores. However if your dog goes come in contact with standard de-icers, make sure your dog either wears boots or you do a thorough job of wiping its paws every time you come in from a walk. Organic coconut oil is another fantastic product for paw care. Rub it directly on your dog’s paws. It helps lock in moisture and creates a natural barrier against the elements.
Pet care in the winter months is all about planning for the unexpected. Man’s best friend depends on us for everything–so be prepared. Thinking ahead will ensure that tails will be wagging come spring!
