Your Pets Daily - Can I walk my dog in the snow

Amber Weather Warnings Issued Country Wide - Dog Expert Advises How to Safely Walk Dogs In Snow

Tom Stone — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Amber weather warnings have been issued across the country for widespread snow and rain. Google Trends has seen a 50% increase in searches for “can I walk my dog in the snow” so dog owners are unsure of how to safely exercise dogs in snow - and what the safety measures are to prevent accidents.

Warnings such as these have led dog experts Kennel Store to weigh in on how to safely exercise your dog, as minus temperatures head towards the UK.

“With temperatures dropping, it’s important to take extra care of your pup to ensure they’re able to stay safe, whilst still enjoying the colder weather. If your dog doesn’t handle the cold very well, it can leave you wondering if you can take your dog out in the snow.

Here Are Our Top Tips To Keep Man's Best Friend Safe on Winter Walks

Check the temperature before walking

Depending on your dog’s breed, it may be too cold for your dog to go out for a walk. Before heading out, check the temperature and if you’re unsure, refer to the chart below which breaks down the risk level depending on your dogs weight, along with other factors that could put your dog at risk.

Keep your dog on the lead if it’s snowing

Snow can cause poor visibility, and if your dog is off lead it could mean your dog could get lost. If the snowfall is particularly heavy, there may be deep patches or holes and unsafe areas. Keep your dog on lead to prevent them from falling and potentially injuring themselves.

Ensure your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag, and they are microchipped

It’s important that the microchipping database is up to date with your address and current contact information.

Don’t allow your dog to walk on frozen ponds and lakes

Ice can be deceiving and extremely dangerous. If your dog is on a frozen pond, it may not be strong enough to hold their weight and they could fall through. Should this be the case, encourage them to swim back to you and call emergency services as soon as possible.

Check your dogs collars and leads

Damp conditions and wet weather can cause metal to rust, so be sure to check your dogs lead clips and harnesses.

Wipe their paws

Be sure to wipe your dog's paws when you come in, to remove salt and grit. This prevents their paw pads getting sore and stops your dog ingesting salt and ice-melting chemicals.

Make sure your dog is visible

With less sunlight, consider purchasing a LED collar or lead for your dog to ensure that you and your dog are visible to drivers. Alternatively, walking earlier in the day means you will be more visible to oncoming vehicles and will likely be warmer.

How To Keep Your Dog Active In Colder Temperatures

Keep your dog active indoors and outdoors

In extremes of temperature and bad weather, you may find you’re spending more time inside. Provide your dog with enrichment games and long-lasting tasty treats that can keep them mentally stimulated.

Change your route

Walking different routes allows your dog to experience new smells and surroundings, and changing up your route provides an exciting change to your dog's routine.

Teach your dogs new tricks

Even if your dog is trained and knows multiple tricks, being indoors in the cold weather is a great opportunity to teach your dog new tricks and skills. This means bonding time for yourself and your dog - and also is a mentally enriching and stimulating activity.”

Kennel Store are dog experts and have vast experience in dog care and pet housing. If these comments would be suitable for any articles you have coming up, Kennel Store would be more than happy for you to use them. If you need any additional information or exclusive quotes, please feel free to shoot me an email and I'd be more than happy to organise this for you.

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Can I walk my dog in the snow

Snow warning: Dog owners urged to avoid toxic grit on roads

Jessica Curtis — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 20:00:00 +0000

In the midst of snow warnings around the UK, dog owners are being urged to keep their four-legged friends away from toxic grit on the roads.

Pet insurance experts from Quotezone.co.uk are being urged to follow top ten tips to keep their four-legged friends warm and healthy this winter.

Following warnings the UK could face snow and plunging temperatures, dog owners are being told of ways to keep their dogs safe. Many residential areas will be gritted in an attempt to prevent ice from forming, but the salt and grit on the roads can be toxic to dogs.

Dog owners can keep their dogs safe by washing their paws after each walk and making sure they aren't ingesting any of the grit. Other ways to keep pets warm in plummeting temperatures include keeping them dry, elevating their beds, eliminating drafts and putting rugs down on hard floors in the home.

Greg Wilson, Founder and CEO of price comparison site Quotezone.co.uk said: "We are a nation who love our pets. Most homes in the country have a dog, cat or other furry friend, but many don't realise the best ways to ensure their comfort and safety during chilly or turbulent weather.

"Our cold temperatures can have a negative impact on our beloved animals, even if they are inside full time. Unpredictable drops in the temperature can lead to our dogs shivering, trembling, feeling weak or over tired. Taking steps to improve your dog's comfort levels during the winter is very important.

"Simple hacks like keeping them dry, elevating their bed and cutting down on grooming can make all the difference to your dog's health and happiness this winter. With more cold weather on the way, make sure to keep an eye out for unusual behaviour.

"It is also important to protect them from certain human winter hacks such as de-icing and gritting the roads. Remember to wash your dog's paws after each walk, especially if there is grit on the roads around your home, as it is actually toxic for pets. Same for anti-freeze, make sure you don't use it anywhere near your pet and store it out of reach as it is highly poisonous."

Here are Quotezone.co.uk's hacks for keeping your dog safe and cosy this winter:

1.Toxic grit

The rock salt in grit used on the roads and footpaths during winter is actually toxic to dogs, make sure to wash their paws and stomach straight after each walk or it can start to irritate the skin – if they start to lick their paws clean themselves there's a risk of gut irritation and hypercalcaemia.

2.Keep them dry

If you return home with a muddy pup after a long winter walk, make sure to dry them off as quickly as possible after bathing. Their internal temperature will have dropped outside and again once they come out of their bath. Make sure they are thoroughly dry and warm to avoid trembling and shivering.

3.Avoid anti-freeze

Anti-freeze is highly poisonous to dogs so be very careful when and where you use it and keep it well away from pets, who have been known to think it's rather tasty.

4.Winter fashion

Your dog's coat is a natural protector against the colder temperatures. During the winter months, allow their fur coat to grow slightly longer between grooming sessions. Also add an extra coat or jumper for particularly cold or wet walkies – ideally with reflective strips to help increase visibility on the darker nights.

5.Heated dog bowls

Making sure your dog gets their daily essential nutrients is really important in winter, but food left in bowls on the floor can be cold and unappetising to dogs who are feeling the chill. Make their food more enticing by placing it in warmed up bowls.

6.Use rugs where possible

Dogs with shorter legs are closer to the ground and can get colder quickly from hard floors and tiles. Where possible, place down rugs or blankets to avoid too much contact between smaller dogs and cold floors.

7.Elevate their bed

To keep your dog warm and cosy throughout the night, elevate their bed off the floor. If you have lots of hard flooring in your home, consider letting your dog sleep in your bedroom in their bed or a crate. The room will be much warmer and help them stay comfortable throughout the night.

8.Watch out for ice

Outdoor elements during the winter, like snow and ice, can hurt their paws. Their pads can become scratched, chapped or cracked. Make sure to keep an eye on the elements and consider canine boots if regular snowfall is forecasted. It may also be safer to keep your pup on the leash as snow and frost can hide potential dangers.

9.Blankets

Heated blankets are a great way to keep your pooch warm and cosy. However, a more cost-effective way to keep them warm is to grab your warmest blankets and create a ring or donut shape in their bed so they can curl up in the middle. This will help to keep in the warmth.

10.Eliminate drafts

Check your home for cool drafts, through windows or doors. Heated blankets, elevated beds and rugs will only work so hard to keep your dog warm if you have constant cold breezes coming in from the outside – simple draft excluders for under the doors can be bought for as little as £5.

If you're worried about your dog, most insurance providers now have a 24/7 vet helpline for any queries or concerns – so it's worth double checking your policy now and adding the phone number to your contacts just in case.

Pet insurance comparison experts at Quotezone.co.uk help animal lovers save on multiple pets, dog and puppy insurance, it's never been more important to compare and find savings.

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‘Troll from Trondheim’: Vet advises on walking your dog in the snow

Your Pets Daily Editor — Wed, 07 Feb 2024 16:00:00 +0000

With the "Troll from Trondheim" bringing another cold spell (and potentially snow!) to the UK this week, the vets at Admiral Pet Insurance wanted to offer advice to dog owners on whether they should let their pups venture out into the cold, and if so, how to do it safely.

Admiral's in-house veterinary nurse, Nicki Fox, has put together a comprehensive guide on how to make sure your dog gets the exercise they need while making sure the cold doesn't cause them any harm.

How can I tell if it's too cold for my dog outside?

"This might seem obvious, but consider the temperature outside. Is it too cold to be out? You may be warm, but your dog may struggle depending on breed, size and health status. Learn to read your dog's body language. Is your pup shivering or whining? Are they acting lethargic, have cold ears or breathing in a shallow manner? Are they perhaps seeking shelter or lifting their paws or tucking their tail under? These are all signs of discomfort, which might suggest they're feeling cold. If they are cold, consider them wearing a coat, one that allows for full freedom of movement and that fits well."

Is it safe to be outside with your dog in cold weather?

"Yes, with the right precautions and risk assessments. Take into consideration the environment around you. Is it icy? Could your dog slip or fall? You should never let your dog walk across frozen water and you should keep them on the lead when walking through snow. Have paths been salted? If your dog walk on salt or grit, wipe your pup's paws when you get inside to remove any potentially irritating elements."

What can I do to make it safer for my dog in the cold?

"It may be safer to train your dog inside on really cold days, but if you venture out, always check the security of your dog's collar, harness and lead to make sure you're in control should something happen. Seeing that it is still dark in the morning and evenings, we would also recommend taking visibility into consideration, such as wearing hi-vis vests or LED lights collars. I would avoid antifreeze and rather focus on having the right gear to make them comfortable.

"Whatever you do, do NOT leave your dog alone in the car as the car can get very cold and their inactivity will make things worse."

If it's too cold to walk my dog, how can I ensure they get enough exercise?

"A lot of media suggests using an indoor treadmill - this is not something we would recommend. There have been a lot of reported accidents, particularly with small breeds becoming trapped and/or injured.

"If you have sufficient space indoors, games like fetch and tug-of-war are very popular to increase good manners and impulse control. Encouraging natural instinct by hiding toys and treats around the house can keep your dog occupied and stimulated. Discourage boredom with puzzle feeders or sturdy appropriate toys stuffed with treats.

"If possible, arrange doggie play dates to mix things up. Encourage interaction with others in a safe indoor environment. You could also try canine agility classes. If you have a facility locally, you may be able to try your hand at agility with your dog. A lot of places have indoor facilities and it can be a fun activity for the whole family. If you do not have a local facility, get creative at home, making obstacles out of cushions, cardboard boxes and other household items."

What activities could your dog do if you don't have enough space in your house or when you're not able to go out?

"As mentioned, you don't need vast amounts of space to spend time with your dog at home. Outside of exercise, there is plenty you could get up to with your pup. Grooming is one example; spend time making a fuss of your canine companion. A bath and a brush go a long when building a bond with your dog. Plus, a less smelly dog is always a bonus when you're trapped inside!

"You could teach your dog a new trick (sit, speak, paw, roll over, or spin). All you need is space for your dog to move around comfortably and treats.

"Relax! We're sure that you and your dog spend a lot of time together outside when the weather isn't so bad. Use time at home to relax and have a cuddle on the sofa. This is great for bonding and helps decrease stress in both dog and human."

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Can I walk my dog in the snow

Does Your Pup Need Snow Boots?– Insights from a Vet Ahead of Forecasted Arctic Blast

Tom Stone — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Searches for 'dog boots' have increased by 125% in the last week, as an arctic blast is forecasted to bring a barrage of snow and plunging temperatures to parts of the UK. But do dogs need paw protection in the snow?

Dog owners may be wondering whether their dog needs boots to protect their paws from snow and ice, as well as other hazards such as road salt during the colder winter months.

Head Vet at tails.com Sean McCormack is advising dog owners to use alternative methods of protecting their pets paw pads, as this trending product can cause discomfort.

"Generally, dog boots will not cause your dog any pain, however, they might feel uncomfortable, which is why I advise against purchasing them. Dogs find it extremely difficult to adapt to wearing boots, as they make their paws heavier and restrict movement.

One of the most common problems with dog boots, is that pet parents find it difficult to recognise when they don't fit their dog correctly. This can cause a lot of discomfort for your pet and make walking very challenging for them.

Though considered fashionable to some, most dogs don't need any form of footwear.

A dog's paw pads are tough enough to withstand the snow, ice and frozen ground. They have adapted to the cold and are designed to survive the outside. Body temperature plays a big part in this, as the pads draw warm blood to the skin to keep them warm. The tissue on a dog's paw pad is built to protect them from temperatures as low as -35 degrees.

The tissue on the dog's paw is the toughest skin on the entire body and the gripping texture allows them to maintain traction and balance. When boots are worn, dogs lose grip and the surface becomes slippy, making it harder to walk for your pup - it's a similar experience when a human wears socks on a slippery floor."

"But while paw pads are tough, they're not indestructible. When walking in winter dogs are more susceptible to cuts and cracks on their feed, which is why dog owners need to be most cautious. If your dog keeps picking up their paws when walking, or if they are excessively licking their pads then this could be a telltale sign that your dog's paws are sore.

Paw balm or petroleum jelly-based products can help to keep your dog's paws safe in winter. Before you head out on a walk, coat the balm on your dog's paws to create a barrier that will help to prevent snow, ice and other road chemicals from getting in their paw cracks.

Additionally, this will help to keep their pads hydrated, which is particularly important in the cold weather when the air becomes dry. When you return from your walk, wipe it off!"

"Grooming plays a huge role in protecting your pup's paws during the more chilly period. Trimming the long hairs on your dog's paws will make it harder for ice, snow and de-icing products to cling and dry on their skin causing irritation. Be extra careful when trimming these areas, or take your pet to a professional grooming service.

When walking during winter, dogs are exposed to road salt, which can be extremely dangerous, as it can irritate the skin, causing dryness, cracking and even burns to the pads. Even more dangerous for dogs, if they lick it from their paws or fur, they can ingest the chemicals, which can be toxic. These harmful products sit on their fur and paws, so it's important that when you return from walking your dog that you clean their paw pads to remove any chemicals.

Many car owners will use antifreeze to clear the ice from their vehicles. As the ice melts from your car, the antifreeze will mix with the water, which can be harmful if your dog likes to drink from puddles. The dangerous chemical in antifreeze is ethylene glycol, which has a sweet taste that dogs enjoy.

Antifreeze can cause damage to your dog's kidneys, even after a small amount has been ingested. So it's important that if you see any liquids leaking from your car, keep your dog away and clean them up straight away.

Frostbite and hypothermia are risks dogs face when the temperature drops. When it's cold outside, avoid taking your long walks, break these down into short walks more frequently, as exposing your dog to cold temperatures for a long period can be dangerous."

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Can I walk my dog in the snow

Vet issues warning over dog boots as the UK braces for icy temperatures and snow

Katie Court — Wed, 29 Nov 2023 12:20:26 +0000

Searches for 'dog boots' have increased by 182% in the past 24 hours, as the UK braces for a wave of plunging temperatures and a barrage of snow. But do dogs need paw protection in the snow?

Dog owners may be wondering whether their dog needs boots to protect their paws from snow and ice, as well as other hazards such as road salt during the chiller winter months. Head Vet at tails.com Sean McCormack is advising dog owners to use alternative methods of protecting their pet's paw pads, as this trending product can cause discomfort.

Though considered fashionable to some, most dogs don't need any form of footwear.

But while paw pads are tough, they're not indestructible. When walking in winter dogs are more susceptible to cuts and cracks on their feed, which is why dog owners need to be most cautious. If your dog keeps picking up their paws when walking, or if they are excessively licking their pads then this could be a telltale sign that your dog's paws are sore.

Additionally, this will help to keep their pads hydrated, which is particularly important during winter when the air becomes dry. When you return from your walk, wipe it off!

Grooming plays a huge role in protecting your pup's paws during the colder period. Trimming the long hairs on your dog's paws will make it harder for ice, snow and de-icing products to cling and dry on their skin causing irritation. Be extra careful when trimming these areas, or take your pet to a professional grooming service.

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Can I walk my dog in the snow

Do dogs need boots for the snow? Vet uncovers the truth…

Your Pets Daily Editor — Mon, 10 Jan 2022 13:16:24 +0000

Dog owners may be wondering whether their dog needs boots to protect their paws from snow and ice, as well as other hazards such as road salt during the chiller winter months.

Head Vet at tails.com Sean McCormack is advising dog owners to use alternative methods of protecting their pets paw pads, as this trending product can cause discomfort.

Please find the comments from Sean McCormack below;

Though considered fashionable to some, most dogs don't need any form of footwear.

Additionally, this will help to keep their pads hydrated, which is particularly important during winter when the air becomes dry. When you return from your walk, wipe it off!"

"Grooming plays a huge role in protecting your pup's paws during the colder period. Trimming the long hairs on your dog's paws will make it harder for ice, snow and de-icing products to cling and dry on their skin causing irritation. Be extra careful when trimming these areas, or take your pet to a professional grooming service.

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Do dogs need boots for the snow

Can I walk my dog in the snow