Some dogs can’t get enough of the snow, and others won’t set a paw outside in it. Either way, pets need extra care as the temperatures drop and the sidewalks get coated with snow, ice and salt and sand treatments.
Fur coats aren’t always enough to keep a dog warm in the winter months and how a pet tolerates cold weather depends on the animal’s size, weight, coat type and overall health.
At 45°F, young, old or sick animals can begin to suffer health consequences from the cold, according to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria (AWLA).
When the temperature hits 32°F, pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need access to a heated and well-insulated structure with blankets or dry straw that’s raised off the ground and protected from wind and precipitation. As usual, animals will also need access to food and non-frozen water, according to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.
“There are a lot of misconceptions (about how to care for pets during the winter),” said Gina Hardter, a senior manager of public relations for the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria.
** Download the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria's cold weather information sheet here! **
Owners should also keep in mind that the salt used to melt ice from sidewalks and sand used for traction can be dangerous to dogs, she said. The salt contains chemicals that can irritate a dog's paws or be harmful if ingested. Owners should wipe off their dog’s paws after walks to avoid ingestion of chemicals on their paws, said Teri Grow, who owns holistic pet store PetSage in Alexandria.
Considering shortening walks if it’s too cold outside, the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria recommends. Especially if it’s raining, sleeting or snowing, many dogs will benefit from a water-resistant coat. Some pets will also tolerate wearing booties to protect their paws from snow, ice, salt and sand.
Some pets may develop health issues over the winter, just like people do, because they are exercising less, said Grow.
“If they’re working (out) less, they can gain weight,” said Grow, who specializes in care for dogs and cats, and is a member of the American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association. “It can be such a problem for mobility and health issues.”
Cold weather can also cause joint pain, especially in older animals. Grow recommends underwater treadmills, exercise gyms or doggy daycare for pets during the winter (if they’re sociable with other pets). Acupuncture and massage can help alleviate joint paint, as well, Grow said.
If pets are showing more signs of arthritis pain with cooler temperatures, Grow recommends owners add omega-3 fatty acid supplements to protect their joints. Herbal therapies with turmeric can help with inflammation. She said these oils can also help with their skin, which loses moisture from indoor heat. She also recommends fresh water in multiple places, as the heater can also make them thirstier.
If the snow and ice make your pets fur a bit matted, Grow recommends brushing pets’ fur with wooden or natural bristle brushes with fish oil.
In case of a power outage or heat outage, pets need the same care as people — extra layers and blankets. If the power or heat are out for an extended period of time, the Alexandria area has no shortage of pet-friendly hotels and short-term rental homes.
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria
