8 Tips For Dog Parents During The Deep Freeze | The Odyssey Online
Start writing a post
Lifestyle

8 Tips For Dog Parents During The Deep Freeze

You can bundle up, but what about them?

40
8 Tips For Dog Parents During The Deep Freeze

In This Article:

With winter in full swing, there are so many things to worry about - road conditions, snow days, wind chill - that the special winter needs of our pets can get lost in the commotion. This is a collection of some simple reminders and tips to keep both you and your pets safe and warm this winter.

1. Know your dog

images.pexels.com

It is very important to know what your pet can handle.

"Just like people, pets' cold tolerance can vary [...]. Be aware of your pet's tolerance for cold weather, and adjust accordingly."
- American Veterinary Medical Association

Your dog's cold weather tolerance is based on several key factors: age, coat length, size, health, fat stores, and activity level. Take the liberty of making decisions regarding how long your walks will be or how much time your dog spends outside based on these factors. For example, if you have:

1. An older dog: consider taking a much shorter walk than normal to reduce age-associated health risks - their bodies have trouble regulating temperature and they are more prone to slipping and falling.

2. A dog with a short coat: less time is advisable based on their limited protection from the cold and how fast the heat leaves their body. This is compared to dogs with thicker coats that may be able to tolerate the cold for a slightly longer time.

3. A dog with shorter legs: time outside should be limited, as short dogs bellies are closer to the ground and therefore more likely to come in contact with the snow.

2. Keep an eye on the frostbite index

images.pexels.com

Just like humans, dogs are prone to frostbite; especially on their ears, tails, and the pads of their paws. Frostbite in dogs is caused by extended exposure to extremely cold temperatures and can be accelerated by the presence of water (snow on the ground!!!). Warning signs include pale or discolored skin along with tenderness or pain.

Keeping an eye on how long it takes for exposed skin (dog or human) to develop frostbite is the first step to preventing this. The frostbite index is based on the wind chill, and a helpful chart for determining how much time you can safely spend outside is provided here.

3. Outdoor pets need to become indoor pets

images.unsplash.com

Sometimes, it is just too cold for your dog to live outside. Between wind chill, frostbite, frozen water in their dish, and the extra calories they need to stay warm, it can get unsafe for a dog to stay outside very quickly. Consider bringing them inside, or even just into the garage to help them keep warm.

If your dog absolutely must stay outside, American Humane has some pointers for keeping them safe.

4. Dress them up

images.pexels.com

You wouldn't go outside without your coat, would you? They shouldn't either, especially dogs that have minimal or short fur. Wrap them up nice and toasty before they head outside.

5. Protect their paws

youtube.com

Dogs paws are very sensitive to snow and ice, as well as the salt, anti-freeze, and ice-melting agents used on city sidewalks. Protecting their feet from these things might require some fashionable booties! Not all dogs will tolerate wearing shoes, though, and if that is the case, make sure to limit time outside and dry their feet when back inside.

6. Keep them cozy inside

images.pexels.com

Make sure there are blankets available for your dog to snuggle with! After they come inside from doing their business, make sure to warm them up to prevent skin irritation.

7. Keep them entertained

images.pexels.com

Being trapped inside on a frigid winter day can get boring for a highly active dog - or even a lazy dog. Keep their mind active and engaged (between naps of course) to prevent them from wanting to go outside if they don't need to. They will also sleep better at night.

8. Things to remember

images.pexels.com

These are just some general things to keep in mind while navigating a brutal winter with any animals, not just your pet.

1. Animal neglect is a misdemeanor crime in all 50 states. If you see an animal left out in the cold without proper shelter, call the police!

2. Refrain from shaving your dog in the winter. Not only does this allow for skin irritation, but it also prevents them from keeping as warm as possible!

3. Ditch the monthly bath. Dogs don't need to be bathed as often as humans, as overexposure to water and soap dries and irritates their skin. Only bathe your dog if they get dirty, and make sure they are completely dry before going outside.

4. Check your wheel wells and engine compartment for campers. Birds, squirrels end especially cats are drawn to the heat of a car engine and will not hesitate to climb up inside for a warm nap. Make sure to check for critters before starting your car.

5. Keep pets away from frozen bodies of water. Ice isn't always as sturdy as it looks, and hypothermia can kill an animal very quickly.

Report this Content
This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
Taylor Swift in orange dress playing a moss-covered piano on stage with bright lights.

A three-and-a-half-hour runtime. Nine Eras. Eleven outfit changes. Three surprise songs. Zero breaks. One unforgettable evening. In the past century, no other performer has put on an electric performance quite like Taylor Swift, surpassing her fans ‘wildest dreams’. It is the reason supporters keep coming back to her shows each year. Days later, I’m still in awe of the spectacle ‘Miss Americana’ puts on every few days in a new city. And, like one of Taylor’s exes, has me smiling as I reminisce about the memories of the night we spent together.

Keep Reading...Show less
Student Life

A Few Thoughts Every College Freshman Has

The transition into adulthood is never easy

23615
Mays Island
Courtney Jones

Today I started my third week of college at Minnesota State Moorhead. I have survived welcome week, finding my classes on the first day, and being an awkward loner in the dining hall. Even though I have yet to be here for a month, I have already experienced many thoughts and problems that only a new college student can relate to.

Keep Reading...Show less
Students walking on a sunny college campus with trees and buildings.

"Make sure to get involved when you're in college!"

We've all heard some variation of this phrase, whether it came from parents, other family members, friends, RAs, or college-related articles. And, like many clichés, it's true for the most part. Getting involved during your college years can help you make friends, build your resume, and feel connected to your campus. However, these commitments can get stressful if you're dealing with personal issues, need to work, or aren't sure how to balance classes and everything else going on during the semester.

Keep Reading...Show less
Relationships

9 Reasons Why Friends Are Essential In College

College without friends is like peanut butter without jelly.

9865
Bridgaline Liberati and friends
Bridgaline Liberati

In college, one of the essential things to have is friends. Yes, textbooks, a laptop, and other school supplies are important but friends are essential. Friends are that support system everybody needs. The more friends you have the better the support system you have. But you also have someone to share experiences with. And don’t settle for just one or two friends because 8 out of 10 times they are busy and you are studying all alone. Or they have other friend groups that do not include you. Don’t settle for just one or two friends; make as many friends as you can. After the first couple of weeks of college, most friend groups are set and you may be without friends.

Keep Reading...Show less
Lifestyle

The Power of Dressing Up

Why it pays to leave the hoodie at home.

7147
sneakers and heels
Sister | Brother Style - Word Press

For a moment your world is spinning. The phone alarm has just scared you awake and you’re flooded by daunting thoughts of the day ahead. You have three assignments due and little time to work on them because of your job. You’re running late because you’ve hit snooze one to many times after yesterday’s long hours. You dizzily reach for a hoodie, craving its comfort, and rush for a speedy exit, praying you will have time to pick up coffee. Does this sound familiar?

Keep Reading...Show less

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Facebook Comments