Winter will soon be upon us here in the High Country! I always look forward to colder temperatures and snow (just not the short days). We humans are pretty good at making sure that we are prepared for the cold weather with appropriate footwear – but do you do the same for your dog?
No – I’m not saying they need boots, but do you know how to care for their paws during the winter?
Always Check for Salt/De-Icers
If you use salt or ice melt on your own walkways, or take your pup on a walk in town, be sure to check their paws after your walk. Getting a piece of salt stuck in between their toes is a recipe for disaster and can lead to chemical burns. Some de-icers are also toxic to our pets if ingested.
Check in between their paw pads and wipe down their feet after any outdoor outings to keep them in top shape all winter long.
Beware of Ice
Playing or walking in the fluffy snow can be such a joy for you and your dog! Don’t forget to be on the lookout for slippery or sharp ice on top of or under that snow. Playing for too long in crusty snow can lead to raw paws and even cuts!
Ice is a fall risk for our dogs as much as it is for us. If your yard is icy, keep your dog on leash to help make sure they take it slow. We don’t want them to slip and injure themselves. One of my childhood dogs tore her cruciate ligament slipping on icy stairs! A slip on the ice can be a costly accident.
Keep Their Paws Moisturized
Dry paw pads can lead to a handful of problems: they can crack and bleed, they are more slippery on ice and floors, and they can just be uncomfortable! There are a variety of dog-specific balms and salves you can use to moisturize your dog’s paws before or after a romp in the snow! Brody’s feet get really tender in dry weather, so we always keep a few options on hand. Soft and flexible paw pads are key to helping your dog keep their balance in your home and out in the elements, so don’t skip this!
Boots, or no boots?
There are a lot of dog shoes on the market. Do you need to buy a pair? I don’t think so! Unless you’re planning on getting into skijoring or mushing, your dog probably doesn’t need any extra protection from the elements. Follow the tips above, and don’t forget to pay attention to temperatures, too! When temperatures drop below freezing, your pup’s feet can get really cold, and can even get frostbitten! Just keep your outings shorter and they should be fine!
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