As we feel the full brunt of what’s gearing up to be one of the coldest Ontario winters we’ve seen in years, it’s important to remember that our pets need special attention and care during the winter season. Keep your pooch safe and happy with a few of these easy winter tips to keep in your back pocket this season 🙂

Keep the temperature in mind!

Some breeds like Chows and Huskies are blessed with thick fur that keeps them warm naturally, even in very cold temperatures, but pups with thinner coats will need to wear a sweater or coat when exposed to the cold during winter strolls. A good coat should reach from the neck to the base of the tail and also protect the belly.  It’s worth investing in a well made winter coat for your dog, and remember that coats will not prevent frostbite on the ears, feet or tail…so even with a nice & cozy coat, don’t keep your pooch out too long in freezing temperatures. A good rule of thumb is that if you’re cold, they’re cold!

Stay Moisturized!

Just like our skin gets dry and cracked from the cold climate, our pet’s skin suffers as well! Don’t forget to take special care and use a natural moisturizer like coconut oil or a specialty product found at your local pet store. Burt’s Bees makes a “paw and nose” lotion specifically for our four-legged compadres, or there’s the no fuss route of using a natural moisturizer often found in your cupboards at home. Coconut oil, olive oil, and shea butter all work wonderfully on doggie noses and paws.

Stay Warm, but not too warm! 

Cozy bedding is a must during the winter months. In addition to limiting your dog’s time outdoors on cold days, don’t let your pooch sleep on a cold floor in winter. Choosing the right bedding is vital to ensure your dog stays warm. Warm blankets can create a snug environment, raised beds can keep your dog off cold tiles or concrete, and heated pet beds can help keep the stiffness out of aging joints. Dogs will often seek heat during cold winter weather by snuggling too close to heating sources. Avoid space heaters if you can, or keep them out of reach, and install baseboard radiator covers to avoid your pet getting burned. Fireplaces also pose a major threat so please make sure you have a pet-proof system to keep your heat-seeking pal out of harm’s way!

Enjoy the snow and stay warm, everyone! 🙂