Here's How To Keep Your Dogs Happy And Healthy During Extremely Cold Weather

Here's How To Keep Your Dogs Happy And Healthy During Extremely Cold Weather

Extreme weather can be a challenge for you and your dogs. You need to make sure that you can keep your dogs safe from the difficult climate.

With the frightening polar vortex that overtook the Midwest a while ago, you need to be prepared for freezing cold temperatures and how it could affect your dog.

As a rule, once temperatures drop beneath 20°F, your dog should not be allowed outside on their own anymore. Bathroom breaks are fine, but make sure they come inside again quickly, and never leave your dog inside a cold car on their own.

In slightly more favorable but still cold weather, make sure your dog wears boots to go outside. You should also make sure they wear some kind of warm coat, and don’t forget to give them plenty of warm bedding. If they can’t go outside, keep them entertained with games at home.

Be vigilant about frostbite, which can lead to tissue death, especially in extremities. Symptoms include:

  • Brittle or cold areas of the body
  • Swelling
  • Blue, pale, or gray discoloration
  • Blisters
  • Dead skin
  • Blackened skin
  • Pain
  • Inflammation
  • Redness

You should also pay attention to symptoms of hypothermia, which can be deadly, such as:

  • Shivering
  • Lack of cognitive alertness
  • Weakness
  • Low blood pressure
  • Respiratory issues
  • Muscle stiffness
  • Vacant state
  • Dilated pupils
  • Coma

If your dog’s body temperature drops beneath 98°F, bring them to a vet as soon as possible, preferably with warm towels or blankets in tow, and make sure they stay still.

Feature Image Source: Pixabay

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