Winter Hazards for our Dogs

With weather warnings being issued this week and potentially some snow on the way, I thought I’d cover some potential winter hazards for our dogs and share some tips to keep them safe during the colder months.

I’m going to start with a biggie –

ANTIFREEZE (ethylene glycol) is Highly Toxic

If ingested by your dog you should contact your vet as an EMERGENCY.

Symptoms of ethylene glycol poisoning are –

  • vomiting
  • drinking more than usual
  • twitchy muscles or eyes
  • lethargy
  • unsteadiness
  • seizure
  • panting
  • collapse

Antifreeze naturally tastes sweet which is why dogs are tempted to drink any driveway/carpark spillages. Or they may ingest it by cleaning (licking) their paws after a walk, where they have had contact with products on the ground. You can buy antifreeze with a bittering agent but should also take the following precautions –

  • Keep any products out of reach and handle carefully therefore avoiding spillages
  • Avoid using de-icer where possible and clear your windscreen the old-fashioned way
  • Avoid walking your dog over areas where grit salt has been laid

And most importantly –

  • Check and rinse paws after walks

More Potential Winter Hazards for our Dogs…

FROZEN or FAST FLOWING WATERS

Keep your dog away from frozen ponds and lakes and likewise rivers that are running high and fast. No matter how much of a strong swimmer you think your dog is, keep them on a lead. There are stories every year about dogs getting washed away, it surely is not worth the risk.

ICE BALLS

Remove compacted ice from fur and between the toes after your dog walk. They can be painful if left.

KEEP DOGS WARM

Older dogs, dogs in poor health or those with thin coats will feel the cold. Invest in a dog coat or dog suit. I like the suits and jumpers from Equafleece – they don’t restrict movement, slip or slide off or ping open. And you can just chuck them through the washing machine!

BE VISIBLE

Get a flashing disco dog collar or a light and make sure your dog’s ID tag has your up to date contact info.

UP THE ENRICHMENT

Shorter days and grotty weather usually mean more time spent indoors. Try upping the enrichment and sniffy brain games you provide for your dog at home. Brain-Nose work is a great way to tire your dog out and provide them with stimulation.
You can read more about Canine Enrichment HERE.

Dog Suits & Jumpers http://www.equafleece.co.uk