WINTER CARE TIPS FOR DOGS.

       Winter is here and we need to pay close attention to the weather and to our pets. Here are some tips to help ensure your pets safety this winter season. 

UNDERSTANDING YOUR BREEDS SUSCEPTIBILITY TO COLD.    

   Dogs that are great in the cold climate include  Siberian husky, German shepherd, collie, saint Bernard, bull mastiff, Labrador, Golden retriever, chow- chow, Tibetian mastiff etc.

     Dogs that find harder in cold climate include Doberman, Boxer, Grey hound, Beagle, Pointer, Weimaraner, Great dane, Pug, Maltese and other Toy breeds.

PROVIDE APPROPRIATE SHELTER.

       If you have dog which is placed outdoors ensure that it  has a warm place to sleep off the floor.

      You can provide with a dog bed, cushions, blankets, quilt etc and make a warm bedding.

    Clean and change the bedding regularly.

    While taking your dog for a walking it can be provided with dog jackets, snuggies, sweaters, booties etc.

FEEDING.

     Pets who spend most of time outdoors needs more calories of food in winter because keeping warm depletes energy. But don’t overfeed your dog.

     Routinely check your pets water dish to make sure that water is not too cold.

    Talk to your vet doctor about your pets energy needs.

 GROOMING.

     Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as longer coat will provide more warmth.

      If  your dog is long haired , simply trim the hairs but don’t neglect the hairs between the toes.

      Take  out for shorter walks during cold months.

      Bathe your pets as little as possible during winter or use  sprays.

      Consult your vet about the moisturising shampoo for bathing during winter.

      Maintain a good grooming regime, combing out knots & brushing the coat thoroughly.

HEALTH PROBLEMS.

    As with humans dogs can fall ill during colder months.Respiratory infections in damp climates is the principal concern.Frost bite can be a problem for some dogs especially hairless varieties.

  Arthritis ,osteo arthritis, lameness, especially in aged dogs can be aggrevated during cold months.

   Exposure to winter can cause itchy, flaking skin, cracks in the paw pads, redness between the toes and fleas infestation.

    Consult your veterinarian for proper medication if you came across any of the illness during winter.

    Paying special attention to your dogs wellbeing during winter season will ensure you both enjoy the winter to its fullest.