How to keep your dog safe in the snow

It’s cold! It’s snowing! It’s all very exciting!

But before you start shaping your snowballs and digging your mittens out of that cupboard under the stairs, take a moment to consider your dog.

Yes, your pooch. If you’re cold, they’re cold too, and it’s vital to take some extra steps to make sure they’re happy and healthy when it’s snowing.

Don’t stress if you’re a cat person – we’ve published a guide to taking care of them in the cold and snow as well.

For any puppies and dogs you’re hanging out with this winter, just make sure to follow these steps, as recommended by Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.

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“If your pet is on a prescription medication, be sure you have enough on hand, and call your veterinarian before weather conditions get bad if you think you may run out of the prescription,” Dr. Ryan says.

Wrap up warm

You can’t just stop going for walks, but just like you, your dog needs a coat.

Grab a waterproof coat just for your dog to make sure they’re not shivering when they’re outside. This is especially important if your dog is elderly or has a short coat, like greyhounds and staffies.

Check your dog’s paws

All that salt and grit on the roads could get stuck in your dogs paws, causing irritation and pain.

Plus, snow can compact between dogs’ toes, turning into tiny ice balls which can be incredibly painful.

Make a Simple Puzzle Toy With a Muffin Tin. Looking for a simple way to keep your dogs mind busy? Create a simple puzzle toy with a muffin tin, treats and a few tennis balls. And if you’re looking some more boredom busters check out 26 simple ways to relieve dog boredom.

To prevent any issues, have a proper check of your dog’s paws when they return inside, and give them a good dry with a towel.

Make sure they have a warm and cosy bed

Give your dog their own spot to run to when they come in from the cold – think a cosy bed with their very own pillow and blanket, away from any draughts.

Do some indoor exercise

You may need to shorten your usual daily walk to make sure your dog doesn’t get too cold or tired (and save yourself, too). Make sure they remain active with plenty of toys and puzzles indoors to prevent boredom.

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It’s important to maintain activity levels or adjust the amount of food your dog is given to avoid weight gain.

Stay away from rivers and lakes

Your usual route may go around the pond in the park, but when it’s freezing, you’ll need to mix things up.

An iced over body of water is far too tempting for most dogs, who’ll race to slide around.

The issue there is that you don’t know how stable that ice may be. It could shatter, leaving your dog absolutely frozen.

Never leave your dog in a car unattended

Spay and neuter your pet. Studies have shown that pets that are spayed and neutered live healthier, longer lives. Plus, spayed a neutered pets are less likely to develop behavior problems.

You know the drill for hot weather, but the same rule applies in winter. A car’s interior can get mighty chilly.

Know the signs of frostbite in dogs

A dog can’t tell you when they’re feeling uncomfortable, so it’s vital to know what signs to look for.

Signs of frostbite in dogs include very pale skin with a blue tint, skin that feels very cold or brittle to touch, blisters, and sore, red areas.

If you notice any symptoms, don’t blast your dog with a hair dryer or stick them next to a radiator. Instead, warm a towel in your clothes dryer or on a radiator, then gently apply the towel to the affected areas.

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“Sometimes they have even more stamina than larger dogs.” A collar appropriately sized for small dogs will help keep your petite pet from accidentally getting loose and possibly prevent a lost pup.

If areas go darker, head straight to the vet.

Giving your dog special boots can help to prevent frostbite in the paws.