We all need winter boots to protect our feet in snowy and icy conditions. Your dog also needs special care and attention for their feet during harsh weather, too. This article will help you know how to minimize injury and discomfort for your dog’s paws and be aware of other winter hazards.
A common complaint after a snowy walk is the ice balls that form between the paw pads. This is painful to walk on! Keeping paw hair trimmed on longhaired dogs can pretty much eliminate the snowballs. Applying a small amount of petroleum jelly or another paw protection product can help. Be sure to use an edible product as dogs often lick their feet. Another effective option is boots for your dog. For dogs that will tolerate a boot, this offers the ultimate protection. For others, this becomes a game of bootie search and rescue!
Salt and ice melting products can be a paw irritant and, if ingested, these products can be irritating to the skin and mouth. Signs can include excessive drooling, depression and vomiting. Be sure to rinse and dry your pet's feet after being outside in snow and icy conditions. My dog loves eating and licking the snow that falls off my boots, and if you use or have walked on a de-icer product, your dog will ingest that as well. The safest options to use on your own property are sand, ‘pet-safe’ deicers, and non-clumping cat litters.
Your dog can be injured stepping on sharp objects covered by snow or even by the sharp edges on ice. First aid treatment is to gently cleanse the wound with warm water and a mild soap, and apply pressure to stop bleeding. Paw pads are very thick and slow to heal. Deep cuts to the paw pads may require a visit to the vet for sutures.
Please make sure your dog avoids the following holiday food items: alcohol, chocolate, coffee, spoiled foods, onions, onion powder, fatty foods, salt and yeast dough to name a few. These are toxins that may cause life-threatening conditions in your dog. Be aware that any food that your dog is not used to can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Antifreeze has a pleasant sweet taste but even in small amounts can be lethal. As little as one teaspoon of antifreeze can be deadly to a cat or dog. Please be very careful when changing your coolant or winterizing your cottage or RV. Thoroughly clean up any spills and store your antifreeze well away from your pet.
Christmas tree water often contains fertilizers that, if ingested, cause stomach upsets. Stagnant tree water can have extremely high bacterial content, which can cause vomiting, nausea, and diarrhea.
Your animal may become poisoned with little warning. You should keep telephone numbers for your veterinarian and a local emergency veterinary service in a convenient location. If you suspect that your pet has ingested something poisonous, seek medical attention immediately.
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