The only frosty paws your pets should have are the pet-safe frozen treats you can make:
Blend 32 oz. non fat plain yogurt, 1 cup lower fat peanut butter and 3 very ripe bananas. Scoop into ice cube trays (or paw print/bone silicone molds) and freeze. Set out to soften just a tad before serving for a big tail wag! However…serve only in a warm house or wait to share these treats during the hotter summer months.
Never ever leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops. Dogs and all cats are safer indoors, and should only go out in inclement weather for exercise and potty breaks. Regardless of the season, short-haired, very young, or old pets — ACTUALLY ANY PET — should never be left outside without supervision. Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks to preserve body heat. Water-proof booties can keep paws dry, prevent heat loss and keep ice and melting salts from between the toes! Walkee Paws™ dog leggings are designed to protect paws from rain, snow, ice, salt & chemicals. They’ll keep your dog’s fur clean and dry and prevent icicles between the toes. They are easy to slip on and off, machine washable and from the first try…Haiku had no difficulty walking in them. Felt almost like his own paw touching the ground!
If for some reason though you can’t acclimate your dog to paw protectors (you can do anything if you take it slow and praise, praise, praise), do know that salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet’s feet. Wipe paws gently with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates his mouth, and make sure there is no snow or ice between the toes that can cause frostbite!
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that attracts animals. Take care to quickly wipe up spills and store antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach. Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, and do brush up on your pet first-aid skills before you need them this holiday season. My Pet First Aid & CPR Quick Reference is a GRRRReat place to start and will give you a ‘leg up’ on helping your dog or cat when he needs you most!
If you know an outdoor dog, he must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be faced away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. Similar enclosures with crates and straw can shelter feral cats and keep them warm.
Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter since trying to keep warm depletes energy. Frequently check the pet’s water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal only when the temperature is low (ceramic is better but may crack and then cause an injury) as your pet’s tongue can stick and freeze to metal bowls.
Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife who may crawl up under the hood to get warm. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car’s hood to scare them away before starting your engine and look on top of wheels for critters.
During the colder months, the days are shorter meaning many of your walks may be in the dark. Be sure you both stay safe by having your best friend wear a Headlight Harness!
The bright 90° LED beam not only lights the path to prevent either of you from stepping on something dark or dangerous, but along with the reflective trim, allows you to be seen by oncoming headlights.
The padded chest & belly panels make it a comfortable fit and you can attach your dog’s leash either to the chest of back attachment loop. There’s also a sturdy handle on the back of the harness, just in case you need to grab him and steer your dog out of harm’s way.
Although outdoor play may be limited during the holidays due to daylight hours, temperature and your busy schedule, do take a time out to allow your canine best friend a check of his pmail and a sniff of some good fresh air, but do stay safe along the way!
