We all love winter and its festive vibes. However, the season is not easy for our canine babies, especially those with shorter coats. Therefore, as pet parents, it is our prime responsibility to keep them warm and safe in the chilly weather. If it is your first winter with your furry companion, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ll offer you essential tips for your furry friend to thrive through the cold season without frostbite, discomfort, or illness. Read on to find out more.
Tips to Ensure Your Dog’s Well-being in Winter
Here are some of the vet-recommended ways to ensure your dog’s well-being this winter.
- Keep Your Dog Indoors
One of the best ways to keep your dog warm during winter is to keep it indoors so as to keep it protected from the cold and windy environment. However, if you need to take them out to relieve themselves or for walks, make sure to do so in the late morning or early afternoon hours. Avoid taking your dog outdoors early in the morning or late in the evening when the weather is freezing.
- Keep them Hydrated
The cold winds and the indoor heating in winter tend to dehydrate our dogs, causing serious skin issues. Therefore, it is important that we provide them with plenty of fresh drinking water so as to keep them hydrated at all times. Also, keep refreshing their water bowl every 2 to 3 hours, as the water might turn icy cold, making it difficult for them to drink.
Also Read: Most Common Health Problems in Dogs During Winters
- Provide them with Warm & Cozy Bedding
Our doggos feel as cold as we do and may fall sick if forced to sleep on the floor. Therefore, it is important that you invest in dog-specific beds and blankets for your pooch to snuggle. Place the bed on the spot where your dog sleeps every day, so it can get familiar with the product.
- Keep their Skin Moisturized
The dry air and indoor heat can strip your dog’s skin of its natural moisture, leading to dry and flaky skin. Therefore, to prevent your dog’s skin from getting dry, it is important to keep them moisturized. The best skincare treatments that will ensure healthy skin in your dog are Derma Gel, Derma Creme, Dermoscent Bio Balm, Dorwest Paw & Nose Balm, Dorwest Soothe & Calm Shampoo, Dorwest Scent & Shine Shampoo, and Dermoscent ATOP 7 Shampoo.
- Prioritize Parasite Prevention
If you were under the impression that parasites can’t infest your dog in winter, you’re wrong. External parasites such as fleas, ticks, and mites can survive throughout the year by hiding in furniture, bedding, etc., and infest your pooch at their first opportunity. Therefore, it is important for you to use effective flea and tick preventives to keep your dog safe all year round. Some of the best preventives on the market are Simparica Trio, NexGard Chewables, and Bravecto Chews.
- Ensure Joint Care
Cold weather during winter triggers joint stiffness in dogs. Therefore, we must take proactive steps to ensure their comfort and smooth mobility. Thankfully, there is a plethora of joint care treatments and supplements available on the market that are formulated to ensure your dog’s healthy joints. GCS Joint Care Advanced Powder, Arthrimed Tablets, Mobiflex Joint Care, and Medpet Arthritis Care are a few popular ones.
- Use Humidifiers
The dry indoor air in winter tends to make your dog’s skin dry and itchy. Using a humidifier can help your pet to a great extent by adding moisture to the air. It will help protect your dog’s skin and ensure its overall comfort in the colder months.
- Use Insulated Jackets
Not all dogs are built for the cold. The smaller breed dogs and the ones with short coats need our help to remain warm during winter. While you’re taking your dog out for its winter walk, consider making it wear an insulated jacket. You can look for one that is water-resistant and has reflective strips to keep your pooch safe after sunset.
- Protect their Paws
The snow, ice, and sidewalk salt can make outdoor walks difficult for your dog. Thankfully, there is a wide range of dog-specific booties available on the market that work well to protect your dog’s delicate paws from irritation and keep them warm. Your pooch initially might be uncomfortable with its booties, but with practice and training, it will quickly get used to them.
Ending Note
Winter comes with unique challenges for dogs. But with a few simple steps, you can make the season enjoyable for them. Be it protective booties, a warm bed, or a humidifier, investing in products for your dog’s comfort is always worth it.
At BestVetCare, we carry a wide range of winter-care essentials for dogs at the best prices. Check out our online store to enjoy lucrative deals on your preferred products from the comfort of your home.