The weather is getting cold. While it’s tempting to think that your dog’s coat will provide everything they need to stay warm and safe this winter, they still need a little help from their human companions. You need to take some special precautions to protect and keep your furry friend safe. Dogs are sensitive to several cold-weather dangers, from chapped paws and dry, itchy skin to poisoning from ice-melting chemicals and even frostbite. Here are the main ways cold weather affects your dog, what to look out for, and how to keep them happy and healthy throughout the winter.
Contents
Increased Joint Stiffness and Discomfort
The Reason:
Many people with arthritis are well aware that they feel more pain in cold weather. This is partly due to a drop in air pressure, which causes tissue to swell, or the effect of cold on muscles, which can be uncomfortable even for those without joint problems. The same goes for dogs suffering from arthritis. We can see that when the temperature drops, they feel more pain, but the doctors can’t tell us why this happens.
The Solution:
Get moving. Whatever the reason behind your dog’s increased joint discomfort when the temperature drops, it’s important they remain active, even just for a little while each day. If you can’t muster the energy to brave the cold to take them for a walk around the block or a quick game of fetch, there are tons of indoor games you and your dog can play together, such as hide and seek. If you are going to start an exercise plan with your dog, you will have to stick with it, and the more the better. Also, choose exercises that do not stress the joints too much, or you will have a reluctant dog who is too sore to exercise the next day.
Alternatively, heat therapy is an easy and effective way to make your dog feel happier while reducing pain from injuries, surgery, exercise, cold and even arthritis. Heat therapy stimulates vasodilatation, which helps bring fresh blood to the tissue, helps remove tissue fluid and stimulates long-injured tissue. On cold winter days, proper heat is especially good for reducing stiffness and muscle spasms, increasing blood flow and relieving pain. Because heat improves tissue elasticity, access to oxygenated blood supply, and improved synovial fluid mobility.
Greater Danger of Slipping/Falling and Exposure to Toxins
The Reason:
During icy and snowy conditions, slippery surfaces increase the risk of injuries due to falls. Salt and other ice-melting chemicals can be very dangerous to our beloved dogs. The types of salt (typically calcium or sodium chloride) used to melt ice and snow and keep it from refreezing are quite harsh on delicate paws. These salts, typically calcium or sodium chloride, can irritate the pads of your dog’s feet and are toxic if ingested.
The Solution:
Protect your dog’s paws, and keep them warm during walks with dog booties. Some dog boots and socks are designed with non-slip pads and secure carabiners to keep your dog from slipping. If you want to give your dog something to use outdoors, opt for boots made of long-lasting thermoplastic and equipped with foam foot pads that will help provide extra stability.
Additionally, keep your dog out of the garage and off the driveway where he may encounter antifreeze or other harmful chemicals. Antifreeze tastes sweet and dogs will readily lick or drink it. Antifreeze is extremely toxic and just a small amount can be fatal.
Difficulty Regulating Body Temperature in Sick or Elderly Dogs
The Reason:
Low body temperature can affect your dog’s bodily functions in many ways, and older dogs and those with kidney problems, Cushing’s disease, or hormonal issues can have a harder time regulating their body temperature. A low body temp can affect how well their heart works, cause an irregular heartbeat, and bring about low oxygen in the body or a change in blood pressure. It can suppress the immune system, leading to a higher infection rate and slower wound healing. Cold can also affect the gastrointestinal system, slowing down digestion as well as making it harder for the liver to metabolize medications.
The Solution:
Keeping your dog comfortable and warm is important during the cold season. Providing your dog with a well-padded bed in a warm indoor location or placing a heated blanket (make sure it’s pet safe) in his bed can make all the difference in his outlook. Special equipment, such as ramps to go up and down stairs or onto higher furniture, can allow your dog the ability to move freely throughout the house and to go in and out of the house easier. Clothing can also help to keep the joints warm. Wrap your dog in a specially designed dog sweater, or alter one of your old sweaters or sweatshirts to fit your dog.
Increased Risk of Disorientation
The Reason:
Dogs rely heavily on their strong sense of smell to get their bearings and know where they are. During a storm or when snow and ice blanket the ground, these smells get covered up and it’s easier for your dog to get disoriented.
The Solution:
Don’t let your dog off leash. Even if your pup is usually trustworthy roaming on their own, it’s not worth the risk of them getting lost. Limit their outdoor time to leashed walks or enclosed areas.
Susceptibility to Frostbite
The Reason:
Your dog is susceptible to frostbite when exposed to extreme cold. Frostbite is tissue damage caused by extreme cold. Generally when the temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit, dogs may be at risk of frostbite. Frostbite occurs when a dog’s body temperature drops and blood is diverted from its limbs to vital organs. The areas most often at risk for dogs are: the tail, ears, nose, balls of the feet and pads.
The Solution:
The risk of frostbite is greatly increased if your dog is exposed to extreme cold for long periods of time, or if they are exposed to moisture. The first step to preventing frostbite is to avoid prolonged exposure to the cold. Even dogs that enjoy being outside in the cold need to take precautions in cold temperatures.
Staying warm is crucial to preventing frostbite. Clothing and jackets that protect your dog should always be worn during the winter months. This is especially true for dogs with thinner coats or hair and smaller breeds. Pet boots are essential for protecting toes and feet from snow and ice. Boots protect your dog’s toes from the cold and prevent snow and ice between sensitive toe pads. Boots keep your dog’s feet dry and protect them from freezing. For added warmth, add wool boot lining to your pet’s boots.
Potential Skin Irritation
The Reason:
If you’ve ever experienced dry or cracked skin during the winter months, you know just how painful and irritating it can be. The same goes for your dog. Low humidity and home heating can dry out your pup’s skin and coat.
The Solution:
Dogs are as susceptible to dehydration in the winter as they are in the summer, so fresh tap water is essential to keeping your dog healthy. Although many dogs eat snow, it should not be a substitute for fresh water. Keep an eye on the water bowl to make sure your puppy is always getting enough water. In addition, you can use a moisturizing paw paste to make sure your dog’s PAWS are ready for winter. Keeping your house moist and toweling your dog dry after an outdoor walk will also help protect your skin. Do not bathe your dog too much during the colder months, as this can cause dry and peeling skin.