A Pet's View / January 2007
Protecting Precious Furs
Fur coats come in handy during the winter months, but sometimes even the finest fur won’t keep pets warm. Dogs who spend time outdoors can become just as chilled and uncomfortable as people. Several breeds of dog, like shih-tsus, with long flowing coats, actually have hair, not fur at all, that provide them no real warmth. Although some breeds like German Shepherds or huskies can spend long periods out of doors in cold weather, sleek breeds like greyhounds or Dobermans just don’t have the same protective fur. Pet owners must do their part to help their animals brave the cold.
Dogs who must spend any extended time outside during the winter months should have an elevated structure with a door to protect them from wind and weather. The shelter should be furnished with dry, clean bedding materials like blankets or straw and the bedding replaced if it becomes damp or wet. The shelter should be large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around, but small enough to retain the dog’s body heat.
Even indoor dogs need a warm sleeping area away from drafts.
Pet owners should keep pets away from rivers, ponds and lakes during freezing temperatures, even when water appears completely frozen.
Most dogs, especially retrievers and long haired terriers, should have the fur around their paw pads trimmed during winter. Ice and snow can ball up between footpads and create uncomfortable or painful walking conditions for pets, even if it’s just a walk around the block.
Owners should check paw pads regularly for small cuts and cracks and clean their dog’s paws after walks to remove salt and snow removal chemicals, which can be toxic to pets.
After long walks in the snow or a brisk winter wonderland run at the park, check dog’s ears, tail and feet for frostbite. Dogs that are sensitive to hot summer sidewalks may find that cold or frozen sidewalks also cause pain or even frostbite. A dog that continually lifts individual legs off the ground during a winter walk may be feeling the effects of frostbite. Frostbitten skin often makes the pads look red or gray. If frostbite is suspected, wrap the dog’s feet in a blanket or towels to gradually warm them and contact a veterinarian.
Pet owners should provide the right type and amount of food for the season, which can may be different in the winter. Out door dogs and dogs that have experienced strenuous outdoor activities may require additional food during cold weather. Indoor dogs getting less exercise during the colder months may need less food.
Plenty of fresh, unfrozen water is essential for every pet during winter. Outside dogs may need a heated water bowl. Indoor dogs may require extra water to handle dry forced air.
Shorthaired breeds, like chihuahuas, will appreciate a pet sweater. Like people, pets shiver when chilled. Even ‘tough’ dogs, like boxers and bull dogs, welcome a sweater or flannel coat.
Puppies and older dogs should be kept indoors except for short periods of time. Like people, the youngest and oldest are more susceptible to cold.
Keep all dogs on a leash during inclement weather or during and after snowstorms when they can lose their ability to find their way by smell.
Pet owners with fenced yards should pay attention to snow accumulation and removal. Snow piled near the fence can create an easy escape route. Keep identification tags updated, just in case.
Every year, about 10,000 dogs are victims of accidental antifreeze poisoning. Dogs confined to the garage or with no other source of water are common victims. Any antifreeze spill or drip should be cleaned immediately since dogs often like the sweet smell and taste and even small amounts can be fatal. Take any dog suspected of having ingested antifreeze to a veterinarian immediately. Treated within 9-12 hours, chances for recovery are good, but 12-24 hours after ingestion, the dogs liver will have begun metabolizing ethylene glycol into substances that cause kidney failure and eventually, death.
Cold weather can cause a pet’s arthritis to flare up, and, just like with people, sudden changes in weather or drops in temperature can affect pets suffering with osteoarthritis.
A pet usually kept indoors should not suddenly be moved outside. Dogs require a month or more to become accustomed to lower temperatures. And, no pet should be kept outside in all conditions. When the thermometer dips too far below freezing, it’s too cold for any dog.
Most pets love a car trip, but don’t leave them alone in cars during really cold weather. With the engine off, cars can act like refrigerators, holding in the cold. And, precious furs are far too valuable to risk losing. PL
Copyright © 2007 A Woman's View. All rights reserved.
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