Winter hasn’t officially begun, but temperatures are starting to drop. This is a perfect time to plan for the winter chill to start arriving. Use this winter checklist to keep your dog happy and healthy as the temperatures drop.
Winter Checklist for a Happy, Healthy Dog
- Never leave your dog in the car.
Most associate this with idea as only in the summer. However, your fur-baby most likely doesn’t want to be sitting in a cold vehicle waiting for your return. If your dog is more of an indoor dog, they won’t enjoy waiting outside in a cold car.
- Keep your pet comfortable and warm.
Have spots where your dog can stay warm. If they sleep on the floor, be sure there are blankets to snuggle with if needed. In fact, you may want to consider elevating your dog’s bed slightly to keep it off of the floor during winter months. By doing so, it will give your dog more protection from the cold floor temperatures.
- Work to make grooming a priority in the winter.
There are many things to do for grooming a dog. This includes checking their paws regularly to be sure there is nothing that may have gotten stuck in their paws. Continue to brush their coat and their teeth for healthy hygiene. If your dog needs baths, be sure to bathe them in lukewarm water and dry their coats with a towel.
- Continue to exercise with your dog.
Often it is easy for all of us to stay inside more when the temperatures are cooler. However, winter is the time when dogs and humans alike still need their exercise. Often it is like starting over if you stay in all winter when it’s time to get out in the spring months.
- Winter cold temperatures can flare up the signs of arthritis.
Just as humans suffer during winter months with the joint disease of arthritis, dogs can too. Arthritis is different for each person, as it is for dogs. Some people may ache more in the winter due to the colder temperatures and others in the summer due to the hotter temperatures. Unfortunately dogs cannot tell us when or where they hurt. If you see Try Glyde Mobility Chews for better joint health and arthritis relief year round for long-term results. If you are not sure if your dog could have arthritis, take this quiz to find out more.
As winter is upon us, be sure to protect your fur-baby as the temperatures begin to change. So often, our climate goes from moderate to cold very quickly. Keep your beloved pet’s health in mind as you continue to enjoy the seasons and get outside!
