Yep, it’s here – blustery winds, frigid temperatures, and that white stuff called SNOW!!!  We need to consider the safety of out animals during these cold times.  Dogs are tough little survivors at heart – but let’s not give them TOO much credit. After all, we humans have domesticated them to assist us with our daily survival skills.  We took it much further when we fine tuned their looks and personalities to suit not only our needs but also our preferences!  It is important to recognize that each dog is an individual with his own tolerance or intolerance to temperature.  

A dog who is very young or old cannot regulate his own temperature the way a healthy adult dog can. Dogs with smooth coats (or hairless dogs) cannot keep themselves warm the way a heavily coated dog can.  I bring my dog to work with me a lot.  But there are days that I leave Ronan home for his own safety and comfort.

Obviously, when it’s warm, we must make sure that if our dogs are going to be in the car, that they have enough ventilation, fresh water, and are cool enough to be safe and healthy. In the winter, we decide if it’s safe for our dogs to be in the car for different reasons. When it’s cold and I bring Ronan he always has blankets, fresh water, and the windows cracked.

I also consider something else: even if I know my dog will be safe left in the car, I consider how long he would be there alone.  There are many well-meaning animal lovers who might think that a dog shouldn’t be left in the car for any length of time.  I know of someone who was in a store for approximately 15 minutes when the temperature was cool (not frigid).  When he returned to his vehicle there was a police officer who was called by a woman who thought it was too cold for the dog.  The dog was a fully coated German shepherd!  And he was fine:)

Age and health status should also be considered: an old dog may have an especially difficult time when that cold air hits his lungs, and a young dog might be having too much fun playing to show signs that he’s getting cold.  Some dogs really do need that coat or sweater to help stay warm (yes I know, some people like to dress their dogs up “because it’s cute” – we might address that another time!).  

Playing in the snow is great fun!  Snowballs forming between your dog’s toes is NOT!  Some will actually lay in the snow because they are so uncomfortable and can’t walk!  And ice can cut those paws!  Frequent breaks to warm up, check feet, and get some water should be included!  Try to avoid snow eating – it makes some dogs very sick!  And please be very conservative when allowing your overweight or out of shape dog to play in the snow!

Wash paws if you suspect they’ve been in chemicals or salts used to de-ice the roadways.  Keep them away from antifreeze!  If you think they’ve ingested some get them to the vet ASAP!

Bottom line: PLEASE USE YOUR COMMON SENSE!  We love our dogs, they are part of our family, and we need to keep them safe!

Only 61 Days til SPRING!!!

Stay Warm,

Stacie & Ronan