Talking Tails - 2/24/15

Welcome back to Talking Tails!

Brrr has it been cold outside! I particularly hate sliding on the ice, while Joey likes playing in the snow and tries to catch the snowflakes as they fall. I guess you can tell that we are a senior dog and a toddler pup! I come back inside voluntarily, while Joey has to be wrangled to stop playing outside. We both do spend a bit of time in front of the fireplace every time we come in from the cold. Feels so toasty! 

Special precautions need to be taken to protect your dog, regardless if s/he likes the cold weather or not. Here are a few cold weather guidelines that will help you be a responsible dog owner when the mercury dips.

• Taking a walk. Wipe off your dog’s paws, legs, and stomach when coming in from a walk. Salt, antifreeze, or other potentially dangerous chemicals can adhere to these surfaces and be ingested by your dog through licking of the paws. Paw pads can also crack or bleed when snow or ice gets encrusted. Take it from us, who visit relatives in the north, that can be quite painful. Don’t stay out too long, because your dog’s ears, tail, and feet can develop frostbite.

• Wear those tags or chip. Never let your dog off the leash because snow or ice can cover recognizable scents that would normally allow your pet to find its way back home. This makes it even more important to have your dog wear ID tags or have a microchip.

• Consider a little dress-up! Wearing a doggie sweater can keep your dog warm on walks and even when just going along in the car. Buster looks very sophisticated in his brown tweed sweater, while Joey prefers a tan fleece lined water-repellent coat. We get so excited when we put them on because we know we are “stepping out!”

• Beware of the car. Living in the south we all know that hot cars pose a threat, but cold cars can also pose a significant risk to your dog’s health. Cars can cool down rapidly, becoming like a refrigerator, and can quickly chill or freeze your dog. Keep your heat running when driving the car and never leave your dog unattended in the vehicle. 

• Sleep tight! Provide your dog with a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from drafts. Tile, concrete, and uncarpeted floors may become extremely cold, so place blankets or pads on floors in these areas. We both have very cozy dog beds and warm afghans for snuggling!

Please, take good care of all your pets – canine or otherwise – during these cold winter days. Hug your dog today and talk to you soon! 

Buster and Joey