Today we’re talking winter concerns dog safety tips. We want to share some things you may not have considered. The winter season is particularly tough on animals and sometimes that includes our beloved pets. Dogs in particular are often thought of as “fine” out in the cold weather and that is not always the case. Just like human beings, dogs are not always fine out in the cold. There are certain things that determine whether a pet or animal will be safe during the cold of winter. Here are some things you may not have considered.
Winter Concerns Dog Safety Tips for Your Beloved Family Friend
Exactly how cold is it?
If it is too cold for you then it is too cold for your animals to be out in. Many people assume because a dog has fur that they will be just fine in the cold weather. Some dogs would, but the vast majority of the dogs that we keep as pets have no business being outside in extremely cold weather. Use the rule of thumb for yourself and never allow your dog to be exposed to dangerous cold weather.
Is your dog ill or elderly?
Would you have your Grandmother with congestive heart failure sit outside in the freezing cold? Of course not. Why then do people think it is okay for animals? Dogs should never be left outside if they are sick or old. Just like us, they will get sicker and be at risk for all kinds of problems. Keep those dogs inside during bad weather.
Did you know that dogs can get frostbite?
Just like us, they are susceptible to all the same things we are. Why risk your dog or animal getting hurt like that for no good reason? Keep them indoors and safe by your side.
Shorten cold weather walks
Many dogs get extremely cold quickly and you should consider this if you take long walks during the winter. Most vets agree that shorter walks are a good idea when the weather is dangerously cold. By all means, give them some exercise and let them do their business, but keep it reasonably quick and to the point.
Consider the breed
Some dogs are better built for cold weather than others and you have to consider this when you decide whether to spend time outdoors in the cold. A husky for example is going to fare far better than a dachshund in the cold of winter. Keep this in mind when you determine how long walks, playing time and other outdoor activities might be.
Winter weather and dogs are a poor mix because they are so often misunderstood. It is amazing how many people think that cold weather is no big deal to dogs. The truth is, the vast majority of dogs are not built for cold weather at all. Always consider the other things mentioned above before you let them out and err on the side of caution.
Do you have any winter concerns or Christimas dog safety tips we may have missed? Please tell us in the comments.