As the winter chill arrives, like humans, cold weather can impact dogs. Although nature has given them a coat to protect their bodies, they may require extra attention during this time. While your four-legged may love to play in the snow or take long winter walks, prolonged exposure to cold can lead to many winter-borne illnesses. Therefore, it becomes crucial to adjust your dog’s care routine to keep them comfortable. A little extra attention and care can go a long way in keeping your furry friend comfortable during winter.  Here are some basic guidelines to ensure your dog stays happy, and healthy, with these winter illness prevention tips for colder months.

Also Read: Paws And Longevity: Increase Your Furry Friend’s Lifespan With These Essential Pet Health Ideas

How To Manage Winter Cat/Dog Care Routine?

If your dog enjoys outdoor activities and the weather allows, continue taking them on walks, but adjust the length depending on how they handle the cold. Moreover, some dogs may require a change in the pet diet during winter. Ensure you are providing the right food and additional calories to maintain body heat and meet your furry friend’s safety and winter needs.

Also Read: Pet Challenges: 5 Everyday Problems Every Pet Owner Comes Across. Tips To Solve

Keep Your Pet Warm

Cats and dogs (especially small, short-haired breeds) and those with low body fat, are more susceptible to cold weather. While some dogs have thick coats that help them withstand the cold, others may need extra protection. Consider investing in dog accessories for your pet, when going for walks in freezing temperatures. Ensure the clothing is comfortable, and fits well, covering the neck, chest, and belly.

Protect Their Paws

Winter weather can be tough where there is snow causing irritation or injury to their soft paws. shield their feet from the harsh conditions and keep them comfortable. Always wipe your dog’s paws after walks to remove any chemicals that might be harmful if ingested. You can also use pet-safe paw balm to protect their pads from cracking or drying out. Consider using dog booties for walks on a rough terrain.

Hydration Adjustments

Even though it is cold, dogs and cats still need to stay hydrated. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues. Your pets must have access to fresh water. In winter, water bowls can freeze, so keep a check and replace any frozen water.

Watch For Winter Hazards

Winter brings specific hazards that can affect your pet. Hailstorms, icy roads, cold waves, and even toxic holiday decorations can all pose risks.  For proper cold weather protection, ensure your dog stays indoors during severe temperature days, and never leave them unattended in a car, as the temperature can drop rapidly, causing them to become dangerously cold.

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What Pet Supplements Can Help Your Pet Stay Healthy?

As the weather gets colder, some pets, particularly older feline friends and older dogs, may experience increased discomfort. They may experience changes in their health due to the colder weather, including dry skin, joint pain, or reduced activity.  To support your pet’s well-being during this time, these supplements can help them stay healthy and comfortable:

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for your furry friend to reduce inflammation during the winter. Omega-3s also support skin and coat health, helping to combat dry skin caused by cold air and indoor heating. Fish oil is a popular source.

Joint Supplements

Cold weather can make joint pain more pronounced, especially for senior pets suffering from arthritis. Glucosamine and chondroitin are natural compounds that help support cartilage health and improve mobility. Regular use of joint supplements can help your furry buddy stay active and comfortable too.

Vitamin D And Calcium

During winter pets can get less exposure to natural sunlight, which can lead to vitamin D deficiency. Many high-quality pet foods contain adequate levels of vitamin D, but calcium or a Vitamin D supplement can be helpful for pets with specific health concerns or limited exposure to natural light.

Skin And Coat Supplements

Cold weather, indoor heating, and reduced humidity can all lead to dry, flaky skin and dull coats. Skin and coat supplements containing ingredients like biotin, and zinc can help keep your pet’s skin moisturized and their coat shiny during the winter months.

Probiotics

Winter can sometimes bring changes to your pet’s diet, especially during the holiday season when treats are abundant. It impacts their digestive system. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help maintain a healthy gut and digestive function. Adding a probiotic supplement to your pet’s diet during winter can keep their digestion running smoothly.

Winter-Specific Supplements

Some pet owners may choose to use supplements that are specifically designed to address winter-related issues. Certain supplements may include ingredients like hemp or CBD oil, which can help reduce pet anxiety, stress, or pain associated with the cold. If your pet struggles with separation anxiety due to longer periods indoors, calming supplements may provide relief and help them stay relaxed during the cold days.

(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)

Author Profile: Preeti Sharma

Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.

References:

Pet ownership and human health: a brief review of evidence and issues

Croit Cullach, Durnamuck, Dundonnell, Ross-shire, Massey University, New Zealand

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1289326/

https://www.internalmedicineforpetparents.com/store/p9/one-month-pet-health-journal.htm

Disclaimer:

The content provided here is for informational purposes only. This blog is not intended to substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider for any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition. Reliance does not endorse or recommend any specific tests, physicians, procedures, opinions, or other information mentioned on the blog.