Baby, it’s Cold Outside

By Dr. Will Novak, DVM, MBA, Diplomate ABVP

That’s probably what your dog is thinking every time you grab for the leash. It’s great you’re keeping up on your pooch’s exercise which is imperative in the cold winter months. But while you’re bundled up in a nice wool coat, scarf and heavy shoes, your faithful companion is shivering.

Yes, his coat does provide protection but here in Oregon we get chilly temperatures; and then add the cold east wind and that dog coat isn’t exactly keeping Max toasty warm inside. And, there is no fur on pads of their paws. When it’s 30 degrees outside, concrete is like walking on ice.

Maybe this explains why your dog would rather lounge in front of the TV than go for his daily walk. He’ll wait till summer.

But there are products you can buy to ensure the health and safety of your dog when it’s cold. Remember, the first line of defense is a high quality food diet. Nutrition is a fundamental means of health and in the winter months it’s doubly important. So don’t skimp on the food.

Dog coats are available at any pet store and they even sell rain coats. Many dogs will hop out of the house no matter what the temperature is or how much it’s raining. They don’t know to put on a coat and boots, much less refrain from splashing in the puddles. It’s your job to ensure your dog is well-equipped to handle the wintery outdoors.

And don’t worry your dog doesn’t care what the coat looks like. Yes, there are some coats that may not suit your taste but your dog will be very appreciative of the warm overtones.

Don’t forget the boots. There are dog boots available that are extremely helpful in the ice. Paw pads don’t exactly have the traction of studded tires, they are mostly used to protect the pads from sharp ice. Boots are relatively easy to put on and should be placed on all four paws. It may take a while for your dog to get used to them and ideally, if you can start with a puppy, your dog will be used to them as adults.

By all means, if it is too icy or the weather is treacherous then stay at home. If you don’t feel comfortable going outside then neither should your dog. As always, keep him or her on a leash and don’t tug if you encounter ice. Gently guide her to safe traction.

If the jingle of your dog’s leash usually gets him up and running, but now he barely lifts his head, maybe that’s his way of saying, “I’m not going outside.”

So get him a coat.

Dr. Novak was Chief Medical Officer of the nation’s largest, private veterinary practice for nearly eight years. He is now President of The Hannah Society which helps match the right Pets to the right people. For more information on The Hannah Society please visit www.hannahsociety.com or email info@hannahsociety.com