Winter Safety

COLD WEATHER SAFETY FOR DOGS

Now that the winter months are approaching, we can all benefit from some reminders on how to keep our dogs safe and comfortable.

Keep outings short for inside dogs. A dog that lives in the house does not carry enough coat to provide insulation from the cold.

Remember that puppies and older dogs are less tolerant of the cold and elements, as are shorter coated breeds.

Dog coats (especially for those with shorter coats, older dogs, puppies and those with health issues) can help provide some protection. Polyester fleece will insulate better than cotton fabrics. Also, a high collar or turtleneck coat that covers the dog from the base of the tail to the belly underneath will give the most insulation and protection.

Adequate and gradual exposure to the elements (wind, cold, etc) is required for thicker coat growth that provides insulation for a dog. Footpads also need gradual exposure to toughen and reduce the effects of snow and ice.

An outside dog generally will need an increase in calories during the winter months. Since inside dogs are likely to have less activity during the winter months, you may well need to decrease their caloric intake.

Do not leave your dog in a vehicle for long periods of time. A vehicle loses heat and can become frigid quickly.

While I firmly believe dogs should never ride in an open truck bed, it’s probably a good reminder that riding in the open air increases the risk of frostbite.

BEWARE of antifreeze products that contain ethylene glycol as it is lethal, even in small quantities. (Antifreeze products made from propylene glycol are less dangerous, but still somewhat toxic) Dogs are attracted to the sweet taste of antifreeze, so check your garage and driveway for tell-tale greenish colored puddles. If your car is leaking such fluid, flush the area with plenty of water. Seek immediate medical care if you suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze.

Use caution when warming up a car in a garage containing pets as they will be exposed to carbon monoxide fumes. Caution should also be taken when leaving dogs in a closed vehicle that has the motor running. (Also use caution

with kerosene heaters as they emit carbon monoxide as well.)

Dogs require more water to combat dry winter air, so be sure to provide plenty of fresh water. If your dog is outside, you may want to use plastic bowls, as the tongue can stick to metal surfaces. A heated bowl is a good investment to prevent freezing of the water source for outside dogs.
Cold weather dries the skin and hair. A fatty acid supplement (Derm Caps, 3 V caps, EFA caps or even flaxseed oil) can help keep skin lubricated, control dander and itching, and nourish hair follicles.

Keep feet trimmed to prevent ice balls from developing between the pads of the feet. Ice formation on the feet can lead to frostbite. Such ice formations are also uncomfortable, much like walking on rocks. Lifting of the paws, whining, or frequent stopping on walks are indicative of such discomfort. Vasoline, cooking oil, or Pam applied to the feet prior to walks can help prevent such ice formations. (Booties can be useful and provide some protection for inside dogs when taking a walk)

Chemicals and salts designed to melt snow can cause serious burning to the pads of the feet. Thoroughly wash and dry the feet if your dog steps in such chemicals. Use caution in choosing products for home use.

Long periods of exposure to extremes in temperature and the elements of cold, wind, ice and snow should be avoided. Hypothermia can result when the body temperature goes below 96 degrees F.

Be sure to provide a sheltered place for dogs left outside for hours at a time. The shelter should be large enough for the dog to stand and turn around, yet small enough to retain body heat. An elevated bedding area covered with dry straw, shavings or other material that traps warm air is recommended. (Check the area often to make sure the bedding is dry. Air pockets in the dog’s coat help provide insulation. If the dog becomes wet, air gets compressed out and chilling will occur.) Ideally, the shelter should also have some sort of flap or door to protect from the wind and extremes.

Cold exacerbates arthritis. Joints become stiff and tender quickly and movement becomes difficult in wind, ice, and snow.

Older pets that reside inside can be protected from drafts on the floor with a thick pad or other bedding that is slightly raised from the floor.

Do not leave pets outside when temperatures approach zero. Remember though that when an outside dog is brought inside a heated area, their natural resources to stay warm can be compromised. It is best for outside dogs to be allowed access to exterior buildings that are not heated and as warm. Such

exterior buildings will provide protection from the elements of wind, etc. Straw,

etc. can be used to give some insulation and warmth.

Beware of your fireplace and fireplace screens. Inquisitive puppies can get burned, as can heat seekers who want to recline directly in front of a fire.

Space heaters can also be a source of burns. Chewing of cords when left unsupervised in an outside structure can be dangerous, and a potential for fire if knocked over.

Frequently check ears, tail, feet, and groin areas for indications of frostbite. Signs of Frostbite include flushed or reddened tissue or tissue that appears white or grey. Scaling of skin is also present. Evidence of shock may be seen in extreme cases. Do not rub frozen tissue as this will cause additional tissue damage. Gradually warm the tissue (immerse in warm water or use warm, wet towels that are changed frequently). As tissue becomes flushed, cease warming. Seek medical treatment if frostbite is suspected.

Signs of Hypothermia include drowsiness, shaking, and unsteady gait. As hypothermia progress to dangerous levels, shivering stops and loss of consciousness occurs. Seek medical treatment immediately.