If you have a Florida dog, traveling up to the northern regions may be present some new challenges – for you and your dog. Winter has already arrived in many states, which means the temperature has dropped, and there may be snow on the ground! This seasonal change can be a little uncomfortable for you as well as your pet. Here are a few pro tips for caring for your dog in a colder climate.
1. Limit outdoor time
Your dog may be used to spending the day outside in Florida, in your fenced yard. If you are up North, and lucky enough to have an enclosed area for your pup, be sure to monitor their activity and make sure that they don’t get too cold.
2. Preserve their natural coat
Dogs are blessed with their natural thick fur that keeps them warm naturally. Certain cuts or grooming styles may call for shaving their coats. Just don’t do it! Keep your dog’s coat looking sharp fresh with a high quality brush.
3. To dress or not to dress?
Some dogs will be fine with just their own fur coats in the winter but certain breeds like Greyhounds, Whippets, Chinese Crested’s or even Yorkshire Terriers can benefit from a little extra protection.
4. Use a Humidifier:
Florida dogs and people are used to a moist climate with lots of humidity. If you are traveling to a cold dry clime, you may want to consider using a humidifier. When we humans feel a slight chill, we prefer to sit in a steam room or take a steam bath. The same applies to your pet. You can switch on the steam bath in the bathroom and let your pet in, which will help get rid of any congestion. Also, turning on a humidifier to add moisture to the air so that any dryness is prevented is excellent for their throat and skin.
5. Be careful around fireplaces and space heaters:
Dogs like warm places to cuddle up to take a quick nap. They are unaware of how hot it can get and may curl up next to the radiator, which may present a burn risk to them. This is why these home areas need to be inaccessible to the pets so that they do not get injured.
6. Keep Changing the Dog’s Water:
Like humans, dogs also feel thirsty in winter. Keep an extra eye on your dog’s bowl to make sure that it’s full of fresh, clean water.
7. Set a Cozy Bed for Them:
Some of us prefer to have our dogs in our own beds, right next to us. If your dog doesn’t sleep under-the-covers with you, create a safe space with their crate lined with cozy blankets. Or, place their bed in a warm spot where they will feel most comfortable.
8. Urban or Forest Walks can be hard on Paws
Whether you are visiting a city this winter or a rustic cabin in the Blue Ridge Mountains, you’ll want to be aware of your pup’s paws look and feel. Icy areas that are salted, like in a city will mean that you need to rinse those pads off after your walk. In some areas, chemicals are used to melt the snow and ice which could be harmful. And, in the woods, rocks and craggy terrain could be hazardous too. Remember to clean your dog’s paws after the walk, and moisturize if you feel that they need it. You can find over the counter products for this at your local holistic pet store. If you are a lucky enough to have a dog that will tolerate wearing boots, go for it!
9. Make Feeding Fun:
If you are visiting a place that’s brutally cold and potty breaks are really short, your dog will be missing the stimulus of going for a walk. So, to keep them engaged and alert you can try using a a puzzle feeder. If your dog is mentally challenged, it will get tired faster and not need much physical activity.
10. No Off-Leash Time Outdoors:
If you are visiting an unfamiliar place it is highly unadvisable to let your dog off-leash. There could be unseen hazard and did you know that a snow covered landscape makes it harder for your dog to determine where sound is emanating from. In other words, they may hear you call, but may not be able pin point your location. The answer is to just keep them on the leash!
11. Avoid too Many Bath:
Baths may seem like a good idea to keep your pet clean, but it actually dries their skin just like yours. It is not a serious issue, but dry skin definitely causes discomfort. This does not mean you cut out the bath altogether but reduce the bathing frequency. Also, consult your vet and find a dog shampoo that moisturizes your dog’s skin.
12. Adjust Daily Calories Based on Activity:
If your dog is really active during summer but lethargic when the winter season arrives, it means your dog needs lesser calories. If you see your dog become more active suddenly, you need to reconsider their calorie intake to avoid them getting malnutrition or over-feeding them.
13. Prevent Poisoning:
When you take your dog out during the winter season, you need to be careful that your dog does not lick its paw after the walk. There are salts and other chemicals deposited on the ground to melt the snow that can be poisonous to the dog, which is why keep your pet away from toxins. Boots are a great answer to this.
If you are traveling with medications, it’s easy to leave your suitcase open with each access to pills. Make sure you stash any and all medication in a place where dog does not have access (kids too!)
The Bottom Line:
Seasonal change can be tough on your pet like it is on you. We hope these tips will help you keep your dog warm and healthy during winter vacations. If you have any other queries, you can always ask your vet for suitable advice. Dogs are prone to getting seasonal flu just like humans, so keep them warm and comfortable to avoid dog flu.