Here in Canada, we’re no strangers to winter. It comes every year and brings with it flurries, freezing rain, and frigid temperatures, as well as lots of opportunities to keep cozy! But when the temperature drops below freezing, there is a lot we need to be mindful of to keep our dogs safe in winter. Here’s a quick recap dog winter safety tips to keep our pups protected in cold weather from the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.
WHEN THE WEATHER DROPS BELOW FREEZING
When the temperature drops below freezing, dogs should not be left outside for extended periods. Short-coated dogs and puppies are particularly vulnerable in cold temperatures. Some dogs, especially short-coated breeds, puppies and elderly dogs, may benefit from a dog sweater or coat as an extra layer of warmth — plus they always look super cute in some fashionable and functional outerwear.
Not sure how cold is too cold? Consider this: if you feel cold and uncomfortable when outside without a coat, chances are your short-haired, elderly or puppy dog does too.
“Don’t forget about your furry friends when it’s cold out,” says Jennifer Bluhm, Acting Chief, Animal Protection, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society. “In cold winter conditions, it’s important to consider every part of your pet’s daily routine to ensure they are comfortable and safe at all times.”
DOG WINTER SAFETY TIP 1:
SUPERVISE OUTDOOR TIME
If your dog gets free run of the backyard, stand at the door until he comes back inside to ensure you don’t lose track of time or get sidetracked and forget to let him back in. It’s amazing how time can fly when you aren’t paying attention. Keeping an eye on him also allows you to watch for early signs that your dog is cold, such as holding up his paws or shivering.
DOG WINTER SAFETY TIP 2:
KEEP YOUR WALKS SHORTER
In addition to limiting time outside, choose a walking route that loops past your house in case you or your furry friend get cold and need to come in early. Choose a route that offers some protection from the wind.
DOG WINTER SAFETY TIP 3:
LEAVE YOUR DOG AT HOME
Animals should never be left alone in a vehicle during cold weather. Cars cool down quickly and don’t hold in body heat, which can lead to animals suffering from cold stress, hypothermia or frostbite. Leave your pet at home where they are warm and safe and cozy when you’re running errands.
DOG WINTER SAFETY TIPS 4:
WATCH OUT FOR ANTIFREEZE
Antifreeze is toxic to animals and can be appealing to them because of its sweet taste. Always be on the lookout for antifreeze spills around your car and be sure to clean spills or drips up immediately. If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze contact an emergency veterinarian right away.
DOG WINTER SAFETY TIP 5:
KEEP THOSE PAWS CLEAN
After taking your dog for a walk, use a damp towel to wipe your pet’s paws and underside. Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice on roads and sidewalks can irritate and burn your pet’s sensitive paws and can cause illness if ingested. Investing in a pair of dog boots might be a good idea too — keep in mind, however, that your pup will need some time to get used to wearing them on their tootsies.
EMPOWER THE DOG COMMUNITY
To help keep the dogs in your community safe this season, please feel free to share this article with friends, family and neighbours. It’s important to help keep dog lovers aware of these common winter risks and we can all use a brush up on health hazards from time to time to do the very best for our beloved doglets.
To report an animal in distress in Ontario, call the provincial government’s animal cruelty hotline at 1-833-9ANIMAL (1-833-926-4625).
{CREDITS: Photography by Gooseberry Studios}