Are you enjoying the cold weather? Or are you already anxious for spring? No matter what your opinion is, we have a ways to go until it gets warm again. Our canine pals can also feel the cold, and may need some extra TLC at this time of year. Here, a local Lexington, KY vet lists some winter care tips for dogs.
Food
Good food is always important! If Fido spends a lot of time outdoors, is a working dog, senior pooch, or nursing mama, he may need bigger portions in winter. Ask your vet for specific advice.
Paw Care
Winter can be tough on Fido’s furry feet! Snow, salt, sand, ice, and chemical de-icing agents are all harsh on your four-legged pal’s sensitive paw pads. Use paw balm or wax to protect your dog’s paws, and get pet-friendly de-icing agents.
Exercise
Limit Fido’s outdoor time in cold weather, and keep him warm and comfy inside. Your pet probably won’t want to play outside when it’s really cold, so to keep him active, you’ll want to move his doggy workouts indoors. Playing with a laser pointer is one option. You can also have Fido do stair runs. Playing Fetch inside is also a possibility, though you’ll of course want to use a space that doesn’t have a lot of breakable objects.
Clothing
Dogs with thin fur need some extra protection from the cold. Before you go shopping for Fido, take his measurements and text them to yourself, so you have them with you. Avoid anything with small parts, like buttons, that your dog may try to eat. Don’t put your canine buddy in anything that is tight, hot, or itchy, or anything that restricts his vision or movements.
Walks
The sun goes down much earlier in winter than it does in summer, so you’ll likely be walking your pooch after dark quite a bit. Get a reflective leash for Fido, and a reflective jacket for yourself. Keep the pockets stuffed with gloves, waste baggies, a cell phone, spare keys, a flashlight, and a whistle. You’ll also need boots with a good tread, so you don’t slip on icy sidewalks. Keep a close eye on the ground: snow can hide things like broken glass.
Call us, your Lexington, KY vet clinic, with any questions or concerns about your dog’s health or care. We’re here for you!
