Make Winter Wonderful For Your Pets

By Bonny King-Taylor, the doggy lama, pet coach

We normally think of winter around these parts as cold and wet, but there doesn’t seem to be much agreement between the many long-range forecasts for the next few months in DC.

The Farmer’s Almanac suggests temps in the 40s, with heavy rain from December 2016 to February 2017. Accuweather says we’ll average low 50s with not so much rain. Weather.com predicts even milder temperatures and less precipitation.

What we can agree on is that we need to pay as much attention to our pets’ safety and comfort in the colder months as we do during the dog days of Summer.

From temps to toxins, fur to food, we’ve got the tips you need:

On the Walk

• Coats and sweaters are best when they protect the underbelly and repel water
• Try sweaters that stay warm when wet. MIcro-fleece and wool are good. Fido Fleece is my personal favorite.
• Some dogs resist booties on their first go-round, like in this adorable video, but most eventually get used to them. That extra layer of protection prevents so many problems!
• If your dog won’t tolerate booties, try using a human grade beeswax lip balm to protect pads from snow and ice.
• Puppies, and older or health-challenged dogs, should only be taken out for bio-breaks when wind-chills are low.
• Clip fur out from between toes to prevent the build-up of painful crystals in snow or ice conditions.
• Carry water when you can. Low humidity and the extra energy it takes to combat cold can cause dehydration.
• Practice close-leash walking techniques to keep you both safe from slips and injuries.

Do not let your dog drink from puddles, under any circumstances, even after a rain. Motor oil is toxic and Antifreeze is especially dangerous because it is as sweet as it is deadly. It is very attractive to pets and just licking it off a paw or fur can cause diarrhea and vomiting.

Also, keep in mind that much more rat and mice poison is used in cold months when rodents seek warm and shelter indoors.

If, heaven forbid, you suspect that your pet has consumed something poisonous, keep in mind that most national pet poison control hotlines will charge you per call.

Try our local emergency vets first. Friendship Animal Hospital is at 202.363.7300, and Alexandria Animal Hospital is at 703.751.2022 or their emergency room at 703.823.3601.

After the Walk – Wipe, wash and watch

• ALWAYS wipe or wash feet and belly after a winter walk. Lime, rock salt, grit and other snow melt products, can cause skin and pad irritation.
• Use old towels and/or warm water to wipe down wet or dirty skin and fur. A very soft brush is also good for cleaning grit from between toes and off muddy skin.
• John Paul Mitchell, of hair care fame, makes specialty wipes if you don’t want to use home-based materials.
• Check paws every day. Sharp ice, and frozen surfaces can cut pads. Keep pad wounds as clean as possible and limit outside time until the wound heals.

At the Food Bowl

• Provide a small increase in high quality calories for very active dogs that spend a lot of time outdoors.
• On the other hand, cut back on calories and treats for overweight dogs who do NOT enjoy romping in the cold.
• If your dog suffers from dry skin due to heating and low humidity, consider omega 3 & 6 fatty acid supplements.

Around the House

• Screen fireplaces and put portable heaters out of reach to prevent accidental burns and dry skin.
• The dryness in our homes can make animals more susceptible to problems such as dry noses, upper respiratory infections, dandruff, itchy skin, hair texture changes, dry throats and more.
• Consider using a humidifier to alleviate the dryness caused by heating systems and closed windows. Even basic steamers can help.
• Continue regular grooming, and home-brushing, especially for long-haired dogs, to prevent matting and skin irritation.
• Encourage neighbors to use Safe Paws ice melt. It is 100% salt free AND protects paving.

If you plan to travel for the remainder of the holiday season, keep in mind that Saving Grace Petcare boarding and pet sit services book up really fast! Call or email now.