Winter Dog Tips for Health & Happiness

Hi my name is Jenna, a shelter dog here at Second Chance Humane Society waiting for my new home.  I have been witnessing the temperatures changing as winter moves in with authority here at Angel Ridge.  So I am embracing the change and preparing for fun in the snow.  Dogs really do enjoy playing in the snow – as long as we are not left out in it for too long.  We don’t like to be cold.  Even active dogs like me can get cold.  Just like days of high heat, winter play can be very demanding and dogs must be monitored.

Also keep in mind that varying kinds, density and length of dog hair results in some dogs faring better in cold temperatures than others.  I have a short smooth coat and can even benefit from a doggie jacket when temps are very low.  But even dogs with heavy coats may not want to be out for extended periods on chilly days – so try to pay attention to their signals about this.

Watch for signs of frostbite and hypothermia including shivering, lethargy, slowed breathing, and muscle stiffness, and immediately bring your dog inside if you see any of these.  If dogs are holding up their paws and walking gingerly this is another sign that the ground surface is just too darn cold for bare paws.  Some dogs like to wear little booties to protect their paws on super cold days while others may just prefer shorter walks.

For a dog with minor hypothermic symptoms, wrap your pup in a blanket and provide additional sources of warmth such as warm water bottles, hair dryers, and heated blankets until normal behavior is restored. If the situation seems more serious, call your veterinarian immediately. 

On the other hand, heat does lead to another winter challenge for dogs – dry coats and skin.  Cozy as it is, warm and dry air can dehydrate our coats and skin.  To combat or prevent this, if your vet agrees, you might want to add some Omega-3 fish oil and flaxseed oil to your pet's daily diet to replace lost moisture and keep the coat -- your dog's first line of defense -- healthy and shiny.

Well thanks for tuning in.  I am hoping to find a forever home for the Holidays – keep me in mind if you are looking for some extra Holiday cheer this year…

Call the Second Chance Helpline at 626-2273 to report a lost pet, learn about adopting a homeless pet, or about the SCHS Spay/Neuter Financial Assistance, Volunteer & Foster Care, or other Programs.  Visit our shelter pets online: www.adoptmountainpets.org.  Direct Pet Column questions to:  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .  Photos by Real Life Photographs.