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Winter Safety Tips For Your Pup

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Winter can be difficult for everyone, and it can be especially difficult on your furry pal. You'll need to take good care of your pup during cold winter months to help protect him against frost bite or hypothermia. See below for some winter safety tips to protect your pup this winter:

1. Keep Walks Short

Keep walks short during cold weather days. Your dog's paws are exposed to the cold and ice as they aren't wearing thick soled boots like you are. Try to cut your walks in half and put booties on your pup if he'll let you protect his paws and pads. Also, give him a jacket to protect his skin from the cold and keep him warm.

2. Use A Leash

Use a leash on your dog so he doesn't get lost or run away during those cold weather days or nights. Keep your dog on a leash to walk him, even around your yard that your dog would typically know his way around. During winter, especially during storms, a dog can lose his scent and easily get lost.

3. Skip The Salt

Rock salt can be harsh on your dog's pads and can be poisonous if your dog licks his pads after walking on it. Try to skip out on using rock salt, especially around areas where your pet usually frequents such as patios or sidewalks. Use sand instead to help provide traction, without damaging your pet's pads.

4. Watch Out For Poisons

Poisons during winter are abundant. Rock salt, antifreeze, even some plants such as mistletoe and evergreens can be dangerous during the holiday. Keep an eye on your pooch and where he goes when he's outside. Wipe his paws when he comes inside, and keep poisonous plants away.

5. Keep Your Pet Hydrated

Your pup may not drink as much in cold weather months, so be sure he has plenty of water available to him at all times so he doesn't dehydrate. Also be sure he is eating properly throughout these cold months.

Your best buddy can't tell you when he is cold, so keep an eye on him when he's outside. If he is lifting his paws off of the ground, his paws are freezing. Bring him inside and out of the cold. Watch for excessive licking of his paws, as they could be frost bitten. Take him to the veterinarian if your pet shows signs of frost bite or hypothermia.

Contact your local animal hospital for more information and assistance. 


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