01/16/2025
❄️ Winter Weather Preparedness❄️
First, we believe All domestic pets should be inside during a freeze, however, we realize that that may be impossible for some pet owners….
Many pet owners mistakenly believe their pets can “weather the weather” due to their fur and the fact that they descended from wolves. However, our domesticated furry friends are not acclimated to our winters - so winter weather preparedness for dogs especially is just as important as protecting your pet from overheating in the summer months.
Dogs are susceptible to frostbite, especially on the tips of their ears and tails. Without adequate protection from freezing weather and the elements, dogs may be far less comfortable than you think when they’re outdoors - especially if they aren’t a breed specific to cold winter climates or extreme weather (like Huskies, Malamutes, or Great Pyrenees). Plus, if your “cold weather dog breed” is acclimated to indoor life, they need more outdoor protection than you’d assume.
Give them a water/wind-proof interior space to hang out - If your dogs aren’t allowed in the house, ensure they have a safe, interior space to spend their time when the weather is freezing, windy, or wet. Either build or purchase a water and windproof enclosure, you go a long way toward keeping them dry and warm.
If possible, consider installing a doggy door on an exterior garage door and placing a nice thick bed with sides raised off of the floor. Otherwise, dog houses or igloos are a good investment and can do a similar job of protecting dogs from harsh winters by giving them an indoor option.
It should be large enough for your dog to stand up, turn around, and stretch all the way out. It should be small enough that it supports heat retention via recirculated body heat. If possible, elevate it off the ground and insulate the bottom with straw or wood shavings, topped by a rug, bed, blankets, etc.
Try to ensure the door/access is faced away from the most common wind directions. Use a waterproof material or heavy plastic, firmly fastened at the top of the entrance, that covers the entire opening. This helps to retain their body heat inside, keeping them as warm as possible.
If you have inside pets and you take them outside to use the restroom or exercise remember they need the following things
Sweaters. Rainproof parkas.
Short or long-sleeved fleeces.
Dog boots/booties. If you don’t have these things now is the time to start purchasing. Bring your dog(s) along with you to a local pet supply store to ensure a good fit - Poorly fitting outdoor wear can hurt your dog by cutting off circulation or rubbing uncomfortably in tight areas, causing sores or hot spots.
Some dogs adjust to outdoor gear better than others. So, just like when you allowed time for your dog to get used to a new collar, harness, or leash, they’ll need time and practice getting used to the new clothes or booties.
If your dog sleeps outside or in an unconditioned area, place STRAW (not hay) extra blankets or layers underneath its bed and offer it extra blankets to snuggle under to help it stay warm at night.
Pay extra attention to their paws
In addition to making direct contact with the cold ground, your dog’s paws are susceptible to cuts and abrasions from ice - Pay attention to their body language and perform a full inspection at that first sign of a limp or a change in how they move.
Inspect their paws regularly along walks or after you get home to minimize the risk of further hurt, injury, or infection.
*Make sure Your pets have access to unfrozen water & food - You may forget that the outdoor water supply freezes at night - This can leave your pets dangerously dehydrated.
If you don’t bring your pets indoors during extreme winter weather, check the dog’s water bowls in the morning, when you get home from work, and before you head to bed, so they have ample access to fresh water. The same is true for their food.
Match outdoor exposure to age and health conditions - Dogs that are older, younger, or have health conditions have a more challenging time regulating their body temperature. If this is the case for your pet, talk to your veterinarian for personalized recommendations about how much they can - or can’t - tolerate winter weather and how to keep them safe during this upcoming freeze.
