Take Extra Care of Your Canine Friend During the Winter

We all know that we should not leave our canine companions outside for long periods of time during these cold winter days.  The extreme cold and wind chill can cause frostbite on ears, tails, and feet so make sure you do not to leave them out for extended periods of time. But there are also many other things that we have to look out for during this frigid season. If they are on a cold surface place a blanket or mat down for them.  We have to also be careful of anti-freeze. It looks and smells inviting to pets and is lethal to them.  Rock salt on roads and walkways can be very irritating to your pets paws and should always be rinsed off when you return indoors. 

Winter is a very drying time of year so make sure your pet has plenty of clean fresh water to drink to avoid dehydration.  Always be careful when walking and/or playing near any "frozen" water, it may not be safe for you or your pet.  Leaving your pet in the car with the engine running can also be dangerous, they are very susceptible to carbon dioxide poisoning.

Always be careful of portable heaters, fireplaces they can cause burns or your pet may knock it over causing a fire.  Get your pet groomed regularly as their coat can become dry and the skin can get irritated.  You want to make sure that you keep the hair around your pets feet trimmed for easy snow removal and washing of pads of feet from rock salt.

Let's all have a safe and healthy winter season.


see article by AKC 2013 winter care for canines