While a surprise snow storm hit the locals in Northeast Pennsylvania last week, pumpkins were frozen, residents were shoveling, kids were sledding and dogs were completely confused! Were you ready for winter with your dog? Did you have a warm sweater or coat for Fido? Did you buy those sweet booties for precious? Whether you are a ‘dog dresser’ or ‘puppy accessorizer’ there are a few things you should be paying close attention to as winter rolls around with your pet.
Keep your dog away from anti-freeze. It does not take long for your dog to die from poisoning. If you feel your dog has ingested the substance, look for Staggering, Vomiting, Confusion, lack of energy, excessive drinking/urination. Get to a vet immediately!
To prevent poisoning, switch to a propylene-glycol-based antifreeze. This is a safer, less-toxic alternative to ethylene glycol. Check your car frequently for evidence of leaks (green liquid underneath your car), and immediately clean-up all spills.
Hypothermia is another concern regarding your dog in winter.When your dog has been exposed to the cold for too long, they may develop hypothermia which can leave permanent tissue damage if the symptoms are not identified and treated immediately. Hypothermia is when your dogs temperature falls below normal. Pay close attention to small/ shorthaired dogs. Also- do not allow your dogs outside while wet in winter. You may want to invest in a coat and booties for your dog. Do not let your dog stay out for long periods of time. Some symptoms of hypothermia are stumbling, shivering, collapse, low breathing rate. If you suspect hypothermia, bundle your dog in a warm dry blanket and contact your vet for instructions.
Frostbite can also cause damage to tissue by exposure to extremely cold weather. Frostbite is not as easily spotted on dogs. Some areas usually affected are the toes, ears and tails of a dog. The skin will be cold and pale. Try warming the animal by bundling them. Do not apply too much pressure to any area as that can make matters worse. Contact your vet if you suspect your dog has frostbite. Prevent frostbite by not allowing your dog outside for long periods of time.
Protect Paw Pads. Chemicals and rock salt that melt the ice on roads and sidewalks, can damage your dogs delicate paw pads. Dogs also like to lick the chemicals off their paws which can cause further gastrointestinal issues. Wash paw pads off with warm water after walks or time spent outside. Booties can eliminate contact with these harmful chemicals. Another tip for safely de-icing your property is to purchase eco-friendly and pet-friendly de-icer products (like Safe Paw Ice Melt) for your sidewalks, door steps, and driveway.
For some local stores which carry safe winter pet products try:
PETCO
Phone: 570-820-5973
Pet Supplies plus
Phone:570-829-3446
PetSmart
Phone: 570-825-8425
P&D Pet Supply
Phone 570-474-2822
If you like this article and want to read others like it, please subscribe to the column and share the articles through facebook and twitter.
Comments