Dogs and cats are going to be dealing with the winter weather just like the humans are, but be especially careful for the little ones.
Dachshunds are big dogs in little bodies and they may seem to like to burrow and dig, but they may not be aware of how the cold catches up with them rather quickly.
My friend and fellow Dachshund owner Nicole sent me this cute cartoon (see the photos) of the Dachshund in the snow, and yes, there are lots of parts that are in the cold for the long little one.
Here are some rules from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), which is an international association of more than 42,000 veterinary care providers who treat companion animals.
They say:
Some animals can remain outside safely longer in the winter than others. In some cases, it's just common sense: long-haired breeds like Huskies will do better in cold weather than short-haired breeds like Dachshunds. Cats and small dogs that have to wade shoulder-deep in the snow will feel the cold sooner than larger animals. Your pet's health will also affect how long she can stay out. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and hormonal imbalances can compromise a pet's ability to regulate her own body heat.
Dachshunds may like to dash through the snow, even dig in it, but they may not be aware that it can fall on them. Let your Dachshunds play in the snow (as you can see the video below, some love it), but remember they can be lost pretty quickly, and the snow can get heavy and suffocate a pet.
Here are a few other rules:
• Take your animals for a winter check-up before winter kicks in. Your veterinarian can check to make sure they don't have any medical problems that will make them more vulnerable to the cold.
• Keep your pets inside as much as you can when the mercury drops. If you have to take them out, stay outside with them. When you're cold enough to go inside, they probably are too.
• If you absolutely must leave them outside for a significant length of time, make sure they have a warm, solid shelter against the wind, thick bedding, and plenty of non-frozen water. Try leaving out a hot water bottle, wrapped in a towel so it won't burn your pet's skin.
• Animals that are not generally in good health shouldn't be exposed to winter weather for a long
Our old Dachshund Rudi caught a cold and for the longest time refused to eat, until getting a 10-day regime of meds to kick him back into action. So, yes, your dog can get a cold, and get cold.
Also check out these:
Symptoms of Cold
When outdoors with your pet, watch for the following signs of exposure:
• Whining
• Shivering
• Appearing anxious
• Slowing down
• Stopping movement
• Looking for places to burrowIf you notice any of these signs, return your pet indoors and if symptoms persist, take them to a vet.
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