With temperatures dropping and the holidays in clear sight, keeping our pets warm and comfortable is the greatest gift of all. For some of our furry friends, this is the best time of year to get out and play; for others, it’s a little too cold to think about anything but warm snuggles in our laps. Let’s dive into some friendly tips about cold weather and keeping our canine companions warm.
Protect Those Paws!
We all love walking our dogs. It provides a sense of comfort and connection for both of us. When walking our dogs in colder weather, to keep their little paws safe from frostbite, prepare them with paw balm or booties from your local pet store. Paw palm will create a protective layer on the pads, preventing the cold from hurting them. Booties are another great option to avoid frostbite and to protect from snow and ice buildup on the fur around the paws. Keep in mind that walking our dogs more frequently in short increments will also help keep them warm, active, and happy.
Layer Up!
With our pets’ multiple variations of coat types, some need more attention than others. Let’s help keep our short-coated pups warmer by adding a layer or two of comfort. Jackets, sweaters, and onesies can help pets stay warm during our outdoor adventures. While longer and double coats provide natural warmth, adding a thin, waterproof jacket will help keep the fur dry and comfortable during the rainy season.
Healthy Skin, Happy Pet!
Having a clean pet is a nice feeling for the whole family. Bathing too often can remove important oils produced by their skin. These oils are essential for a dog’s skin and coat health. So, help prevent dry, flaky skin in the winter by washing your pup less frequently and using products that add hydration, such as moisturizing shampoos and conditioners.
Bring Them In!
Lastly, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. Just like hot weather causing discomfort, cold weather does just the same. Pets can become disoriented, so much like in the summer. Please don’t leave your pets unattended in the car, and make sure they have warm, dry spaces to escape the winter weather.
Holidays bring along family and photos. Come on down to Paws for Elegance for a grooming appointment to get your dogs and cats looking their best for these special occasions.