01/18/2019
HERE WE GO AGAIN: When The Weather Outside Is Frightful
OUTDOOR WINTER HAZARDS
Antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid contain methanol and ethylene glycol, a sweet-tasting toxin that causes deadly kidney damage, as can chemicals like ice melts and salts that stick to the bottom of dogs’ paws. It is therefore essential to wash their feet following exposure. Dog-safe ice melts and non-clumping kitty litter that provides traction are now readily available.
The thought of a dog being forced to live outdoors, where they’re susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, makes my teeth chatter. Hypothermia can affect normal body functioning and produce injury or, eventually, death. Fresh, unfrozen water should be available at all times. At the very least, outdoors dog must be protected from the elements by providing a sturdy, insulated doghouse or igloo. Dog-safe heated mats, along with a good layer of straw, help keep them warm and (reasonably) comfortable.
Always monitor your dog around ponds or lakes as they can fall through thin ice into freezing water and may suffer hypothermia or drown.
It is easy for a dog to lose her way in deep snow and “Invisible” Fences may not work.
INDOOR WINTER HAZARDS
Burning candles, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, and space heaters create the potential for burns and smoke inhalation. The flickers and warmth of a fire can be an attraction for dogs; they therefore should not be left alone in a room with open flames or hot electric elements.
Same with Christmas trees: Everything about it, from the tree itself to tinsel, lights, ornaments and the gifts below, is attractive to a puppy. If you’d prefer not to cardon-off the whole room, try surrounding the tree with an Ex-pen.
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