The winter season varies across India. Be it freezing cold weather up North or just a slight drop in temperature in more of tropical areas, winters are prominent from December to February in India. But one thing we all love in winter is getting warm and bundled up, while feeling cozy. And that’s just not only us, our pets feel the same way too.
So here are a few things to keep in mind to ensure your pet’s comfort and health during winter:
1. Keep Them Indoors.
The breed or size of your dog does not matter, since all dogs feel cold. It is a general misconception, that a thick-coated fur dog will not feel cold as compared to a short coat dog. No one enjoys this chilly weather, shivering, and feeling uncomfortable; so it’s important to give them a proper spot indoors to feel cozy and warm. Protecting them from being completely exposed to the chilling weather outdoors will ensure they don’t risk catching cold. Another thing to keep in mind is to reduce their walking time to a shorter duration and play games indoors to use up that energy.
2. Don’t Ignore Grooming In Winter.
A properly maintained coat acts as a natural warmer for a dog during chilly nights. But it’s a popular belief that dogs don’t need proper grooming during winter and you might avoid bathing him. However, ‘grooming and hygiene’ is an important routine throughout the year to ensure your dog has a good and healthy coat that prevents formation of matts. Even a double coat breed dog may seem ready for cold but his coat is useless if not maintained properly. Moreover, a matted coat does not provide proper insulation and can prove to be discomfort and hassle to the dog. However, if it gets too cold, you can make use of dry shampoo to keep their coat clean.
3. Dress Them For The Season.
With winter come cold winds, uncomfortable chills, and even cold floors. Investing in a good quality dog coat/vest, especially, if you have a small breed or short coat dog, will help to keep him warm while going on a walk outdoors. Even a double coat dog could benefit from an extra layer of warmth during a chilly day and feel cozy and comfortable. If your dog is comfortable wearing dog boots that too can be an added layer while going on a walk and protect him from any cold surface.
4. Change Their Drinking Water Regularly.
One might assume that just because it is cold, dogs might need lesser water. But that’s not true, just like in summer there is an equal chance of your dog getting dehydrated in winter as well. So make sure to provide him clean drinking water at all times. The chilly weather will also make their drinking water too cold to drink so keep restoring the bowl with room temperature water to keep him hydrated.
5. Moisturization Is A Must.
Winters bring along a lot of dryness, dandruff, and also flaky skin. To help prevent dryness to their skin, make use of coconut oil to moisturize and also use good quality shampoo and conditioner while bathing them. You can also make use of moisturizing creams especially for the paws and his snout to avoid any cracking or dryness and keep them soft.
6. Keeping Them Safe From Heating Elements.
If you’re someone who resides in a colder area, you most likely would be making use of an external heating device at your place. And as dogs start to feel the chills they might try to snuggle near the heating device. So keep an eye on them as this could be dangerous for your dog. Also, protect your dog’s coat from building static by moisturizing and regularly brushing it.
7. Health Check For Senior Dogs.
Winters tend to aggravate the pain in bones and joints, especially, if your dog suffers from arthritis. So it is extra important to provide enough exercise to your dog and also provide comfy and cozy bedding for him to snuggle. If your dog feels any more discomfort, consult a veterinarian for additional supplements or medication.
Always remember, keeping these basic tips in mind can ensure a healthy winter season for your furrymates. And don’t forget to enjoy this season with some warm cuddles with your buddy!