Keeping Your Pet Safe and Healthy During Colder Months
More dogs go missing in the winter than any other time of the year. Snow accumulations or ice on the ground make it tough for dogs to find a scent and easy for them to get lost. Not only that, but winter offers some challenges not seen in warmer months.
Here are some tips to keep your dog safe during the colder months.
Consider paper training puppies until spring and then retrain them to go outside.
For dogs involved in outdoor activities, make sure they are getting adequate calories and protein, increasing portion sizes or frequency of feeding if needed. For dogs that get less exercise during winter, be sure they are not overfed and remain active and stimulated.
Never leave your dog alone in the car or without heat.
Be sure your dog has a warm, dry place to sleep that is well out of drafts. Add additional bedding and safe, supplemental heat if necessary.
Keep your dog on leash when you’re outside with him, and make sure his ID tag is current.
Thoroughly wipe off your dog’s feet, legs and belly when he comes in from outside to ensure any salt, antifreeze or other chemicals are cleaned off.
Wipe up any antifreeze spills immediately.
Keep your dog’s coat longer during the winter months to help keep him warm. Consider a dog sweater for short-haired dogs, small breed and senior dogs.