Your Pets Daily - Keeping dogs safe in winter

Keep your pooch safe from the winter chill

Tom Stone — Wed, 31 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Brits are being urged to consider their dog's comfort and safety in these chilly winter temperatures.

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

Following extremely low temperatures and storms causing strong winds, pets across the country are feeling the chill. No dog owner wants their beloved animal to suffer. Although they might not be showing signs of discomfort, dogs are affected by the cold as much as humans.

Some breeds will feel the cold more than others, especially those with a shorter or finer coat.

Body language and behaviour can help to distinguish whether they are feeling the cold. Look out for shivering or trembling, continuous whining or barking, a hunched posture, curling up into a ball and signs of weakness or lethargy. The cold can impact older dogs more severely, having an impact on their joints. Check for signs of soreness or stiffness when they move.

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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Keeping dogs safe in winter

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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Keeping dogs safe in winter

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Can I walk my dog in the snow

Cold snap prompts warning from Vet on the dangers of walking your dog in icy conditions

Tom Stone — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The Met Office has warned that parts of the UK are set to be even colder this week, as an arctic blast sweeps across the country, bringing freezing temperatures and disruptive snow showers.

The drop in temperature and wintry hazards has prompted Head Vet at tails.com Sean McCormack, to share a warning to dog owners. He is urging people to look out for rock salt and antifreeze, as well as taking extra care when walking their dog in icy conditions over the next week, as the freezing conditions can present all kinds of dangers for our canine companions.

"Rock salt is a mixture of salt (sodium chloride) and grit and is an effective way to reduce ice build-up on roads during the colder seasons. However, road salt can be extremely dangerous to dogs, as it can irritate the dog's skin, causing dryness, cracking and even burns to a dog's pads. Even more dangerous for dogs, if they lick it from their paws or fur, they can ingest the chemicals, which can be toxic.

"Symptoms of salt poisoning include drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and loss of appetite. In more severe cases, it can result in seizures and even death. This is why dog owners need to clean their pet's paws after coming home from a walk".

"Chilly January mornings can lead to frosty windscreens, and many car owners will use antifreeze to clear the ice. 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. Antifreeze can cause damage to your dog's kidneys, even after a small amount has been ingested.

"The dangerous chemical in antifreeze is ethylene glycol, which has a sweet taste that dogs enjoy. So it's important that if you see any liquids leaking from your car, keep your dog away and clean them up straight away.

"Once consumed, dogs become wobbly or fall over. The back and kidney area can become painful, and they may experience vomiting, dehydration and increase urination. After a couple of hours severe acute kidney failure sets in and they display signs of lack of appetite, diarrhoea, drooling, halitosis and seizures".

"Along with the cold weather comes another danger for our pets; hypothermia, which is an extremely dangerous drop in body temperature. Hypothermia can be life-threatening for dogs with short and thin hair, small dogs, puppies, elderly dogs and dogs with chronic illnesses. The first symptom of hypothermia is excessive shivering, which is followed by lethargy. If your dog is displaying signs, call the vet immediately, and move them to a warm area, then warm the body by covering them in hot water bottles, blankets or towels.

"However, trying to keep your pets toasty warm in the home can be dangerous. Household heating systems might be comforting to dogs, but they put dogs at risk of overheating and burning their fur and skin. Gas heaters and fireplaces can also cause smoke inhalation and carbon monoxide poisoning. To protect your pup, limit the time they spend in front of the heater and never leave them alone with a heating system switched on".

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Keeping dogs safe in winter

Dog Expert Advises UK Dog Owners As Temperatures Drop and Heavy Rain Looms

Tom Stone — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Exercising your dog is a great way to bond with your dog, and also helps maintain their physical health. But in winter, knowing when it is safe to walk your dog is important.

As the temperatures across the UK begin to drop, and temperatures are predicted to reach as low as -8 across the UK, taking our furry friends for a walk can be treacherous. The UK has been given yellow warnings ahead of heavy rainfall forecast, with up to 80mm of rainfall predicted.

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 dog's weight, along with other factors that could put your dog at risk.

Image credit: FetchPet

Keep your dog on the lead if it’s snowing

Snow can cause poor visibility, and if your dog is off lead it could lead to your dog getting 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.

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Keeping dogs safe in winter

Dogs Trust's guide to keeping dogs safe and warm in the chilly winter weather

Katie Court — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 12:00:00 +0000

With plummeting temperatures due to return this week, it is important to make sure our four-legged friends are prepared for the cold.

Dogs Trust, the UK's largest dog welfare charity, is issuing guidance to owners about how to keep your dog safe and warm during the cold snap, including how to avoid potential hazards on your winter walks.

Runa Hanaghan, Deputy Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust, said:

"There are lots of simple things you can do to help your dog stay safe and warm during cold weather, however, there are things owners need to watch out for too which may be hazardous for our dogs.

"Winter walks can be a lot of fun, but it's important to exercise caution when conditions worsen by keeping your dog on a lead and taking steps to improve their visibility with the darker nights"

Winter Health Advice:

Antifreeze is highly poisonous to dogs. Keep it well out of their reach and mop up any spills immediately. Always seek veterinary advice if you are concerned your dog may have licked or ingested any, from the spill or their paws.
Never leave your dog in a car during extreme weather, hot or cold.
Make sure you wipe your dog's legs and feet when you come indoors after a snowy walk. The grit from the roads can irritate their feet. Grit can also be dangerous if your dog licks its paws. Again, seek veterinary advice if you are concerned your dog may have licked or ingested any.
Particularly important if you have a puppy, short-haired or old dog in providing them with a sensible winter coat to stay warm when you go out. Consider letting your dog's winter coat grow to improve their warmth, it can still be kept brushed and untangled even when it is thicker.

Winter Walking Advice:

Keep your dog on a lead if it is snowing heavily. Snow can be disorientating so they might easily become lost.
Make sure your dog is microchipped, the contact details are up to date, and your dog is wearing a collar and an ID tag whilst out walking, so if they do get lost, they can be reunited with you.
As the nights are dark, consider using a reflective collar and lead or a high visibility coat or flashing collar to increase your dog's visibility in the dark. Owners can use a torch and wear high-vis jackets too!
Do not let your dog walk on frozen ponds. The ice may not be thick enough to take their weight. If your dog does fall through the ice never be tempted to go in after them; call the emergency services immediately.
Regularly check that your dog's leads, collars, and harnesses are all functioning safely and not at risk of wear and tear damage during winter weather.
Snow can freeze between dog's paws and owners might find ice stuck to the bottom which can be uncomfortable and make it difficult for them to walk. Rinsing and drying their paws after walks is very important.

Keeping your dogs active in winter:

If you are spending more time indoors if the weather's bad, always make sure your dog has plenty to do – long-lasting tasty chews, or puzzle-toys such as durable food-releasing toys and snuffle mats are useful for giving your dog something enjoyable to do without needing your constant attention.
You can provide entertainment for your dog when parks are closed by walking different ways to your normal route, so they can experience new sights, sounds and smells.
Incorporate training sessions within your walks - take treats with you and reward your dog for doing a trick along each street you walk down. Bring their favourite toy and have a game outside if there is a safe place to do so while they are safely on-lead.
You can play these types of games indoors too – try hiding their toys for them to search for and playing with them as a reward when they find them.
Treat your dog to some fun and games that are educational and valuable by enrolling them in a Dogs Trust Dog School training course! We offer short training courses for puppies, adolescents and adult dogs teaching important skills in a fun and positive environment.

For further information on keeping your dog safe and happy over the winter, visit: www.dogstrust.org.uk/advice

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Dogs

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dog health

Keeping dogs safe in winter