Keep your pups warm in the winter

It can get very cold here in the East Coast. During the winter months I like to stock up on sweaters and coats for my dog Ginger.  I always keep extras in various sizes for the pups that I watch.  It’s also a good idea to leave your pets fur a bit longer during the winter months.

Pups and seniors may have a hard time regulating their body temperature, this could be due to their young age or a senior may have an ongoing health issue. So please do not leave them out for too long.  Their walks and breaks should be relatively short in the snow.  If it’s snowing shovel a walkway and a patch of grass for them to go.  Try taking your pet to an indoor dog gym that way they can run around and release any pent-up energy.  There are plenty of toys that can keep them busy at home as well.

Watch Out for rock salt and antifreeze. Rock salt is going to be everywhere, so try to keep your pet from eating it. Wipe off your dog’s paws when they comes inside, you want to wipe off excess snow and any rock salt (calcium chloride) off their feet.  Pet-safe rock salt might be a better alternative for your home.

Please, please, keep your pet away from antifreeze. It tastes sweet, but is extremely toxic. You should be on the lookout for blue/green-colored substance usually found on sidewalks and driveways.   If their paws look cracked, you can soften them by adding a natural moisturizer such as coconut or olive oil.  I love to use Mushers Secret on Ginger because it makes her paws super soft.   You can even put booties or socks so that it can absorb.

If your pup seems cold, you can use a blow dryer at the low setting to warm them up. Remember a dog’s normal body temperature should range from 99.5-102.5 degrees. If you are unsure you can use a rectal thermometer to take their temperature.

Feel free to share any other tips in the comment section below!