It’s Snowed!!!!!
Living in the Southwest of England snow is a pretty novel occurrence. It brings out the inner child in many of us and we can’t wait to rush out and immerse ourselves in snow related fun and frolics. But imagine you were an alien from another planet and had no comprehension of what has happened. You went to bed that night and the earth was green and you wake up the next morning go out to take the morning constitutional and “WHOA. WHATS HAPPENED!”. This is what it can be like for your dog, so it is important not pressurise them into joining you on long jaunts, making snow angels or building the obligatory snowman.
WHAT THE!!!!
Open the door and let your dog investigate this new experience on their own terms. Remember how you treated every novel experience during the all important socialisation period hopefully this has armed you with a bombproof dog that takes the world in their stride. However you may need to encourage your dog to try this new environment but NEVER force. If you pressure your dog into a situation they are not sure of this will only increase their disdain and in this instance you may end up with a dog that will never join you on a walk in any inclement weather.
GET YOUR COAT……
Whether of not your dog requires a coat will come down to build, coat and even how active they are. My three very active cockers never wear a coat out on our walks, they are far too busy. This really comes down to you knowing your dog but remember your snow coat needs to be waterproof as wet snow laying next to the skin will only serve to make them colder. Also consider acclimatising your dog to the cold shorter walks or garden play maybe the way for the first few days.
POOR PAWS
The paws definitely take a battering in this weather. Imagine going out without your gloves. Many dogs appreciate the use of a bootie however don’t just pop them on and expect your dog too be happy they will require desensitising to them prior to use, (see my desensitisation blog post). Or adding a barrier cream such as Vaseline can assist in preventing snow and ice compacting between the pads and causing chilblains and frost-bite. Specialist dog friendly barrier creams are also available as well as moisturisers. After the walk ensure the paws are washed down as they may have been subjected to chemical de-icing products whilst out and about and we do not want our dog ingesting these.
OUT AND ABOUT
The snow covered ground can hide many hazards so it is a good idea to keep your dog in your sight on snowy days, remember your white coloured dog that usually stands out will now be beautifully camouflaged. As with us dogs can become disorientated when just met with a sheet of white so ensuring they know where you are is also a good precaution. Be aware of areas that may be iced over and steer clear, no one wants to see their dog disappearing under a frozen sheet. Keep an eye on your dogs body language if they are showing signs of being cold it may be time to turn for home.
IT’S ALL ABOUT THE RUB
Dogs like humans can suffer from hypothermia so it is vital to ensure they are dried off and warm after their walk. Pay special attention to hairy legs and stomachs as they can be prone to picking up snow which clumps and turns to ice. My boys then love popping on their Equafleece when it’s a particularly cold day or snuggling on their bed next to the radiator. Alternatively heat up a microwavable buddy for your dog and let them cuddle up.
Overall just be sensible. A snowy day can be a great adventure for you and your dog.
But remember “Don’t Eat The Yellow Snow”.
