Monday, February 05, 2007
Baby it is COLD outside .......
It is a old song and is a remider to all of our readers who may not normally experiance these kind of tempetures that they can be dangerous to dogs. For an experiment put on a jacket and gloves go outside and curl up in the corner of your yard and see how long you stay there. =D Most of you are saying now “....are you crazy....”
Certain breeds, such as Huskies and Samoyeds are better suited to cold weather but all dogs regardless of breed need shelter from the cold. Personally I prefer indoor accommodations and since mine spend a majority of the time indoors this is not an issue. If indoors is not an option set up a suitable house in an area protected from wind, rain, and snow. Insulation, such as straw or blankets will help keep in body heat.
Do not use a heat lamp, space heater, or other ground level heat source. This is a a burn and fire hazzard. Even a normal light bulb can be dangerous in cold weather in the confines of a dog house.
Fresh water is a must at all times! Dogs are not able to get enough water from licking ice or eating snow. A battery heated dish is a wonderful tool for cold climates. The water stays cold, but doesn’t freeze. Outdoor pets require additional food for energy and maintaining body heat in harsh climates.
Dogs walking in snowy areas may develop large ice balls between their pads. Be sure to keep ice clear from pads specifically checking between the pads. If you do has long hair between the pads keep it clipped; shorter will help prevent ice formation. Dog boots offer protection to those dogs that will tolerate wearing them. I tried these on my GSP’s when I lived in North Dakota; personally they cause more problem than they solved if the dog does not like wearing them. In addition I found them to keep moisture and ice near the paws and legs potentially causing frostbite.
Dogs who walk on sidewalks that have been de-iced with salt or other checmical agents are prone to dry, chapped, and potentially painful paws. This will encourage them to lick their paws, and ingestion may cause gastrointestinal irritation and upset. Wash and wipe the feet off after walking across these surfaces. We keep a damp cloth by the back door to wipe feet when the boys come back in from outside.
So with the weather being what it is bundle up and remember if it is to cold for you to be outside the same could be said for your dog.
Recommended Reading:
PAWS Rescue Cold Weather Tips
Pending 
