Let us venture a look through our frosted windows
with the eyes of a dog. The winter wonderland, though fun to play in, can also
present countless hazards for our animals. Here are some things to take into
account during winter weather.
1. Did
you know the rock salt and salt-based products we use to keep our walks clean
and free of ice can present a health hazard to our dogs?
Rock salt and other salt-based ice melters contain sodium chloride or
potassium chloride which can heat up to 175 degrees when exposed to water, ice,
and low temperatures. Often these white pellets (crystals) sit on ice and snow
surfaces for a long period before penetrating.
Pets—For
dogs, in particular, exposure to salt-based ice melters can mean an unhealthy
winter and unplanned trips to the veterinarian. The salts get frozen into the
dogs paws and fur. When they are inside with higher temperatures, these salts
can burn the skin causing ulcers and redness to tissue which can lead to
bacterial infections. Dogs can also develop intestinal problems and
inflammation of the stomach (gastritis) from licking the salt-based products
off their paws.
There are several ways
to combat this threat. There is a product on the market called SafePaw, an ice
melter that is non-toxic to humans and animals alike. 100% salt free, SafePaw
is guaranteed safe for the environment, most surfaces, and plants. Although it
is pricier than regular rock salt, SafePaw can be used less often. You can read
more about SafePaw, and find a store locator at their website.
For those who may not
be able to afford or find SafePaw, be sure to wipe your dog’s paws thoroughly with
a clean towel every time they reenter the house. By walking on sidewalks,
parking lots, roads, paws not only pick up the harmful chemicals found in ice
melting salts, but also those found in car fluids such as antifreeze, oil, etc.
Booties may also be an
option, especially for dogs that have little hair, are very young or elderly.
2. Wherever
you keep your dogs, make sure it is warm! Keeping dogs inside during the
extreme cold is my personal preference, but even if a dog lives in the basement
or in an enclosed building, remember that hard surfaces like cement, tiles, and
even wood can be VERY cold. Make sure your dog has a warm, dry place to not
only sleep, but get out and move around.
3. Make
sure that outdoor water bowls are free and clear of ice! Sometimes you will
need to go out and chop the ice off the top several times a day.
4. Ice
and snow can form uncomfortable and painful knots in a dog’s coat. Be sure to
keep up on your dog’s grooming throughout the winter months.
5. As always, exercise common sense and good judgment.
Keep your dog on his leash during walks, and never let them around frozen water
ways. Be aware of what your dog can tolerate comfortably, the temperature, and
their general wellbeing. If hypothermia or frostbite is expected, seek medical
help immediately.
For more winter weather safety tips, go here.
Warm Wags,
Whitney
