How to keep your dog safe this winter - Vets outline cold weather guide for pet owners

As temperatures drop, the first thing which comes on every pet owner’s mind is to take extra precautions and keep their dogs safe this winter. Veterinarians urge pet owners to limit outdoor time, especially during freezing conditions, and watch for signs of discomfort like shivering or lifting paws off the ground. One must ensure that your dog has a warm and dry shelter. Proper clothing and hydration also help protect pets from the winter chill.

Just like humans, dogs can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia when exposed to cold temperatures for extended periods, NBC News reported. Pet owners should also be cautious of icy surfaces that can cause slips, frozen paws, and contact with chemical de-icers, all of which pose risks to their dogs during winter.

BEST GEAR FOR DOGS DURING WINTER

There are two major points when it comes to winter safety of dogs - keeping your pup warm and protecting their paws. Each requires specific gear - a cozy coat helps retain body heat, while booties shield paws from icy surfaces and harmful road salt, reducing the risk of slips and irritation.

HOW TO KEEP DOGS WARM IN THE WINTER

Dog coats, jackets, and sweaters go beyond style as the right fit can provide essential warmth, much like clothing does for people. However, not every dog requires an extra layer, says Dr. Hannah Hart, a veterinarian at Chewy, in an interaction with NBC News. The need largely depends on factors such as a dog’s size, coat thickness, overall health, activity level, and how much time they spend outdoors.

Highly active dogs that generate plenty of body heat during play may not need a coat. Still, Dr. Aly Cohen of Cornell’s Riney Canine Health Center, as quoted by NBC News, advises that even large, thick-coated breeds can benefit from a thin, water-resistant layer to stay dry in snow or freezing rain. According to Dr. Cohen, extra layers for dogs are especially important for longer outdoor activities, while brief outings, such as walking to a nearby car, require less protection.

TIPS TO PROTECT DOGS’ PAWS DURING WINTER

Dogs’ paws are especially sensitive to cold, wet conditions, making them prone to frostbite and irritation. Repeated exposure to snow and ice can leave paw pads dry, cracked, and sore. Chemical de-icers such as ice melt and rock salt - commonly found on sidewalks and in parking lots - pose an added risk, warns Dr. Hart. These substances are toxic if ingested, whether licked off the ground or from a dog’s paws after walking through them.

To safeguard dogs’ paws during winter, veterinarians suggest using booties to create a protective barrier between their feet and the cold ground. However, some dogs dislike wearing them, and finding the right fit, particularly for smaller breeds, can be tricky. If booties aren’t an option, vets recommend wiping your dog’s paws immediately after outdoor walks and applying a paw balm afterward to help prevent dryness, cracking, and irritation.

IS ICE MELT DANGEROUS FOR DOGS?

During winter, pavements, driveways, and sidewalks are often coated with ice melt and rock salt-crystalline substances that appear white, clear, or blue. Typically made from sodium chloride and other minerals, these chemicals prevent ice buildup and improve traction in freezing conditions. However, Dr. Hart warns that while they make surfaces safer for people, they pose serious risks to dogs. Ingesting ice melt or rock salt, even in small amounts, can cause salt poisoning, dehydration, and kidney problems, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, shaking, drooling, and disorientation. Additionally, these substances can irritate dogs’ paws, causing redness, pain, and excessive licking that may result in open sores or skin infections if not promptly cleaned and treated.