Do and Don’t – Keep Your Pet Safe This Winter

First a warning!! Hundreds of children and thousands of pets are accidentally poisoned each year from ingesting antifreeze. Most antifreeze contains 90-95% ethylene glycol, a substance that is attractive because it has a sweet smell and taste. Even small amount can be highly toxic.

De-icing salts – may contain chemicals that are hazardous to pets if ingests in large amounts. Look for “pet friendly” De-icing salts.

Dogs feel heat loss as much as we humans do. Remember that the temperature outside is lower then what the thermometer shows with the wind chill.

You need to protect your dog from his sensitivity to harsh weather elements, however this may depend on the weather condition, the type of coat your dog has and the time he spends outside. The short-coated breeds have the greater tendency of developing more sensitivity to rain and cold weather, on the other hand, thick furred breeds are equally vulnerable to water.

Frostbite is a risk during winter with the dog’s feet, tail, and ears being particularly vulnerable to attack from the cold. The best way to avoid these complications during winter is to restrict your pets’ time outside exposed to the cold.

If your dog stays outside during winter time in a dog house, it should have just enough room for Fido to stand up and turn around, but no more. The doghouse should be small enough to retain the dog’s body heat (but again, not to small).  Also, It should face away from the wind and be elevated from the ground, and you should not use a metal feeding dish, if the temperature drops low enough your pets tongue may freeze to the bowl.

After walking your dog dry his paws, legs and underbelly to prevent bleeding, pain and illness from freeze and chemical salts used for to melt snow. Antifreeze is another danger for pets, it is toxic and small amount can cause death.

Old dogs and puppies are more effected from cold weather that is why you should take them out only for short time.

Winter is Respiratory infections and colds for pets too. Try  Holistic remedies treatment option for health issues and paws heal.

To help dog cope with the cold and snowy weather most people buy their pooch warm clothing.

In general – It is essential that the dog clothes fit the dog comfortably to keep them secured in place even in the most rigorous activities.
· The dog clothes must provide protection for your pet against harmful elements like thick bushes and thorns.

During winter – the dog clothe you choose in this case are ones which are designed to close-in warmth while protecting him from harsh weather. If you own a shorthaired consider investing in a dog coat. Make sure it covers the dog from the base of the tail to the neck,  turtleneck sweaters good for added insulation.

Boots are a good solution for the paws, and added incentive -  it’ll keep your house clean from mud.

The correct way to measure your pooch:

In order to find out the right size of clothing that will feet your dog you need to take accurate measurements.
Make sure your dog is standing, and use measuring tape as follows:
* Measure pet’s back length from the base
of the neck to the base of the tail
*Measure neck circumference
* Measure the broadest part of the chest
Then, check the measurement of the manufacture for each clothe

Remember, pets suffering from the cold weather just the way we are, and dog clothing don’t just look good, but they also have purpose.