01/20/2025
Good morning! I hope you’re all staying warm and dry following our winter storm yesterday. Although it’s a lot of fun for both our dogs and their humans to play in the snow, there are safeguards to keep in mind when doing so. It’s also best for you to go outside with your pet to ensure that they remain safe from any possible toxins (i.e. antifreeze, ice melt, etc.) and are not becoming too cold. If you’re feeling cold, your pet most likely is, too, and it’s best to return indoors:
* Ice melt, most commonly rock salt, is toxic to dogs when ingested and can dry out their paws and cause skin irritation as well. A safer choice for our pets is Safe Paw Pet Safe Ice Melt (https://amzn.to/4jgrezr).
* Dogs can suffer from frostbite. Outfitting your dog with boots is an ideal way to keep their paws warm and dry and protect them from ice melt. SlowTon Dog Boots are a great option: https://amzn.to/4g6Yc2r. Do keep in mind that even dogs who wear boots and coats can suffer from frostbite as their ears and tails are not protected so examine your pet upon returning indoors. Here’s a great article from VEG about frostbite in dogs: https://www.veterinaryemergencygroup.com/post/frostbite-in-dogs. As always, if you’re unsure, reach out to your primary care veterinarian and/or closest veterinary urgent care/emergency hospital.
* Dog coats help to insulate our pets while outdoors, protecting against hypothermia in the wind and wet, chilly elements. My friend, Handyman John Milltown, recently shared a photo of his adorable dog, Hunter, wearing a Carhartt jacket. I was happily surprised to learn that Carhartt makes dog jackets. If you’ve ever worn a Carhartt jacket, you know how warm and dry they keep you. The Carhartt Firm Duck Insulated Dog Chore Coat (https://amzn.to/40l9Z7b) is a terrific option and I especially like this one because it’s brightly colored so drivers and fellow walkers can see your pet.
* When returning from playing outdoors, dry off your pet’s coat and paws. Inspect for any ice melt or other foreign material between their paw pads. You can clean your dog’s feet by using warm water and gentle dog shampoo and drying thoroughly. Dry winter weather can cause your dog’s paws to become dry and cracked. This is not only painful, but can lead to secondary bacterial infections. Consider applying a moisturizing ointment, such as Musher’s Secret Dog Paw Balm (https://amzn.to/3Wsl8C1) to their paws to prevent this from happening. If the cracks in your dog’s paws are severe and/or you notice limping, swelling, and/or bleeding, reach out to your dog’s primary care veterinarian or veterinary urgent care/emergency hospital for treatment (https://seniortailwaggers.com/cracked-dog-paws/).
* A dog’s ability to withstand certain temperatures and be safe outdoors depends upon certain factors such as size, breed, fur length, age, and health conditions as well as the type of weather (i.e. rain, snow, etc.). I’ve attached charts as a general guideline as to when certain temperatures are too cold in which to walk your dog. If you’re unsure, reach out to your primary care veterinarian to inquire. As always, don’t hesitate to send any questions my way and I’ll answer if I can or refer you to a professional who can.
Stay safe and warm enjoying the winter weather!
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