This tip could help keep your dog warm and happy
Dog owners have been advised to take a simple step to help prevent a potentially painful winter issue. This easy solution helps to prevent ice from accumulating in your pet’s fur.
As UK temperatures start to fall, many of us are beginning to feel the chill of winter. However, it might not have crossed your mind that your beloved canine could also be feeling the cold.
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) has offered some advice on its website about how to keep dogs safe during chilly weather. The charity clarified: “Dogs feel the cold. Winter can impact their health and behaviour, as well as expose them to outdoor poisons.”
Among its suggestions, it recommended trimming the hair around their paws and ears. “This prevents ice balls from forming, which are heavy and painful,” the RSPCA explained.
“If they’re medium-haired or long-haired dogs, trim the fur around their back legs and bum, too.” How your dog reacts to the cold will depend on its breed and age.
The RSPCA added: “Even though all dogs feel the cold, different dogs are comfortable in different temperatures. Certain dog breeds come with a ready-made coat; some with a double coat (two layers of fur), meaning they’re better adapted to cold weather months. Dogs with no fur or a thin or short coat are more susceptible to the cold and cold-related illness.
“The size of the dog also affects their tolerance to the cold. Smaller dogs lose body heat faster than larger dogs – bigger breeds are more insulated and higher above the ground, so they stay warmer for longer.
“Puppies aren’t built for cold weather, either, as their ability to regulate temperature hasn’t fully developed. Elderly dogs, sick dogs and dogs who aren’t acclimatised to the cold also struggle.”
As reported by The Mirror, the RSPCA noted that you might observe dogs consuming more food or resting for extended periods during winter months to preserve energy, or displaying increased activity levels as a method of staying warm. Nevertheless, you’ll know your dog best.
Consequently, if they’re exhibiting other unusual behaviours, such as unwillingness to go on walks or losing their appetite, you should contact your vet. Further vital guidance for keeping your dog healthy during winter includes:
Continue their exercise regimeEnsure the dog is microchippedKeep the dog visible with reflective or LED gearDry them off and clean them after outdoor walksWash their paws and stomach to remove grit, antifreeze and rock salt after walksAvoid frozen pondsNever leave them in a carBuy them a dog coatProvide a warm, cosy space indoors
For additional information, visit the RSPCA website here.
