It's Cold Outside!!

With winter weighing heavy upon us I wanted to remind everyone the changes in weather affects us all even our 4 legged friends. You might think that their fur coat is enough to keep them warm but really it is not...if it's too cold for you then it's too cold for your pet. The overall atmospheric changes, ice and snow is a lot for your dog to tolerate, especially if he is outside more than inside. Please keep an eye on the temperature because frost bite can occur quickly and as you know hypothermia can kill.

Provide Adequate Shelter

This is extremely important for dogs that spend most or all of their days and nights outside. A good, strong shelter to keep the wind off is essential to prevent your buddy from freezing to death, even the Nordic breeds with their thick, shaggy fur can succumb. Your dog's winter dog house should be well insulated, (no blankets because they freeze so use straw) and just big enough for him to stand up, turn around and lie down completely inside comfortably. If the doghouse is too big it will not contain your dog's body heat and help him stay warm.

Fresh Water

Snow is not a water substitute and in fact, eating snow can increase your dog's thirst as well as lowering his body temperature, putting him at risk for hypothermia. Make sure your dog always has easy access to fresh, not frozen, water.

Antifreeze and Salt Substitute

Antifreeze is a sweet-tasting and fast-acting poison, so be sure to wipe up any spills from your car and be sure that your dog can't get to any of it. Also toxic is most of the salt substitutes used on sidewalks and driveways. Kitty litter can be used to prevent slipping and will not harm your dog, walk/drive, plants or shrubs.

Nancy Tucci