Your pet could be struggling in the cold weather
Dog owners have been urged to do one thing to help prevent a potentially painful winter problem. This simple solution helps avoid ice forming in your pet’s fur.
With temperatures dropping in the UK many of us are starting to feel the cold. However, you might not have thought about the fact that your pooch could also be suffering.
On its website, the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) shared some advice for keeping dogs safe in cold weather. The charity explained: “Dogs feel the cold. Winter can impact their health and behaviour, as well as expose them to outdoor poisons.”
As part of its advice, it recommended trimming the fur around their paws and ears. “This prevents ice balls from forming, which are heavy and painful,” the RSCPA said.
“If they’re medium-haired or long-haired dogs, trim the fur around their back legs and bum, too.” How your dog is affected by the cold will depend on its breed and age.
The RSPCA continued: “Even though all dogs feel the cold, different dogs are comfortable in different temperatures. Certain dog breeds come with a ready-made coat; some with a double coat (two layers of fur), meaning they’re better adapted to cold weather months. Dogs with no fur or a thin or short coat are more susceptible to the cold and cold-related illness.
“The size of the dog also affects their tolerance to the cold. Smaller dogs lose body heat faster than larger dogs – bigger breeds are more insulated and higher above the ground, so they stay warmer for longer.
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“Puppies aren’t built for cold weather, either, as their ability to regulate temperature hasn’t fully developed. Elderly dogs, sick dogs and dogs who aren’t acclimatised to the cold also struggle.”
According to the RSPCA, you may notice dogs eating or sleeping more in winter, to conserve energy, or an increase in energy levels, as a way of warming up. But you will know your pet best.
Therefore, if they’re exhibiting other unusual behaviours, such as not wanting to go for walks or going off their food, you should speak to your vet.
Other important tips for keeping your dog healthy in the winter include:
- Keep them active
- Make sure the dog is microchipped
- Keep the dog visible with reflective or LED gear
- Dry them off and wipe them down after a walk outside
- Wipe down their paws and tummy to remove grit, antifreeze and rock salt after walks
- Avoid icy ponds
- Never leave them in a car
- Get them a dog coat
- Provide a warm, cosy space indoors
For more information, visit the RSPCA website here.
