Your pet's hair can keep them warm during the winter, however, there are several factors that can affect their comfort level. Neglecting to care for your pet properly in cold weather can quickly turn a romp in the snow into a visit to the veterinarian.
Outside temperature
Temperatures above 45 degrees Fahrenheit are generally safe for pets. Anything below that should make you pause and think about what kind of dog you have. How thick is their coat? What color is it? How much do they weigh? How old are they? These are questions that will help you determine your pet's limits in terms of weather. Wind chill and dampness can also significantly affect your pet's comfort level. Anything below 20 degrees Fahrenheit is the danger zone for hypothermia or frostbite.
Can pets catch a cold during the winter？
If you notice your pet sniffling or sneezing during the winter, it's possible they have contracted an infection. Only a veterinarian can verify this, and you may want to rule out seasonal allergies. However, it's possible for your pet to "catch a cold," so to speak, although it's not caused by the human cold virus. You also don't need to worry about spreading your cold to your pet if you get sick.
Caring for their paws
Unless your dog enjoys wearing booties, their paw pads serve as the only barrier between them and cold snow. Ice might break and pose a risk of cutting your pet, while salt, de-icers, and antifreeze are harmful and potentially toxic to pets. You don't want them to ingest something poisonous when they lick their paws, so make sure to keep a towel around to wipe them off when they're done outside.
Make sure you keep some paw balm around the house to moisturize your pet's pads. Booties and jackets are also helpful accessories if your pet will allow you to dress them. Keep your time outdoors brief, and if you must play outside, do so vigorously to maintain a high body temperature.
Caring for their coat
Maybe skip your pet's regular haircut during the winter, or trim them to avoid dragging long hairs through the ice, salts, and chemicals on the ground. Bath time isn't as necessary either because too much washing can remove essential oils that prevent dry skin.
Ways to exercise your pet on cold days
Sometimes, it's just too cold to enjoy the outdoors with your pet. Never fear, you can still work off their extra energy by playing fetch or tug-of-war inside, providing mental stimulation through puzzles, creating an obstacle course, or simply throwing treats in different directions to entice your pet to run.
Keep in mind that diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease can prevent an animal from regulating its temperature and handling cold weather, so you'll need to take extra care if your pet has been diagnosed with any of those health conditions.
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