Bailey sez: We need special care during these cold winter months! Please read this information posted on the ARL’s site!
WINTER CARE FOR CANINES
General Winter Concerns
- Winter’s cold air brings lots of concerns for responsible owners:
Don’t leave your dog outside in the cold for long periods of time. Windchill makes days colder than actual temperature readings. Be attentive to your dog’s body temperature and limit time outdoors. - Adequate shelter is a necessity. Keep your dog warm, dry and away from drafts. Tiles and uncarpeted areas may become extremely cold, so make sure to place blankets and pads on floors in these areas.
- Be extra careful when walking or playing with your dog near frozen lakes, rivers or ponds. Your dog could slip or jump in and get seriously injured.
- Groom your dog regularly. You dog needs a well-groomed coat to keep him properly insulated. Short or course-haired dogs may get extra cold so consider a sweater or coat. Long-haired dogs should have their paw hair clipped to ease now removal and the cleaning of their feet.
- Feed your dog additional calories if he spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. It takes more energy in the winter to keep body temperature regulated, so additional calories are necessary.
- Towel or blow-dry your dog if he gets wet from rain or snow. It is important to dry and clean his paws, too. This helps avoid tiny cuts and cracked pads. (A little petroleum jelly may soften the pads and prevent further cracking.)
- Don’t leave your dog alone in a car. It gets too cold and carbon monoxide from an engine left running is dangerous.