Keeping Your Family Pets Healthy In Winter
This is a partnered post.
Keeping everybody healthy when the temperatures drop is a challenge for every household. As a parent, you want to make sure your kids are equipped to avoid the common winter colds and ailments. It’s fair to say that most of us pile multivitamins during the winter season to give their family’s immune systems a boost during the cold weather. But what about your pets? Indeed, dog owners know how much their pet loves playing outside in the snow. Every dog is excited to run, jump, and roll in the snow. And, of course, you try to let them out to play in the garden as much as possible. After all, you want your dog to have a blast this winter! But have you considered how the cold weather can also affect your furry friend’s health? Before you turn to Amazon to find the next best brand of multivitamins for dogs, you need to understand the risks of a white winter for your pet.
Everybody loves to play outside
Who doesn’t like to play outside in the snow? The first rule of playing with your kids outside is to check they’re appropriately dressed for the weather. You wouldn’t want a snow angel contest to turn into days of shivers and runny noses. Therefore, weatherproof coats and gloves are a no-brainer. Additionally, you’ll also insist on wearing weather-appropriate footwear. Your dog also needs winter equipment. Indeed, protecting your dog’s paws from the snow is essential. Ice melting salt and toxic chemical agents can damage your dog’s paws. Therefore, it’s a good idea to look for dog boots that will keep paws safe and cozy. Dogs with short fur also need an additional coat to stay warm.
Beware of deep snow
Deep snow can dramatically affect the landscape, hiding holes and uneven ground. Your dog could get hurt running in deep snow and twisting a leg in the process. As a result, it’s not uncommon for dog owners to notice a limp during the colder months. However, you might want to pay close attention to your pet. Indeed, excessive limping as a result of excess exercises in the snow could be the sign of hip dysplasia in dogs, which is a painful disease common to large breeds. Indeed, hip weakness can be the result of excessive activities that affect the joints. Similarly, prolonged exposure to harmful elements such as cold combined with exercises can increase the risk of developing the disorder.
Yum, comfort food
Who doesn’t crave a cup of hot chocolate or a soft and chewy cookie after a pay outside? Comfort food is the best kind of food in winter! And just like you, your dog also craves the comfort of excess calories and sugar when the weather gets cold. However, it’s important to avoid unhealthy snacks. You don’t need to overfeed your dog in winter unless they need the calories. However, as most dogs have a comfortable indoor life, there’s no need for a caloric boost. Indeed, choose a healthy snack, such as fruit – yes, dogs like fruits too!
Keeping your pet healthy in winter is all about preventive measures. From keeping your dog warm when you’re playing together outside to ensuring they don’t hurt themselves in deep snow, you’re responsible for your pet’s health and safety this winter.