Pet Strollers: Winter protection for your dog

The winter months can become a struggle for dogs coping with the wet weather which includes cold rain, snow and ice. Dogs still need to go outdoors during the winter and they can become very destructive if not taken out regularly. They need an outlet for their built up energy, no matter what the weather is and getting them out in the cold winter months can be an ordeal. Some dogs are bred to deal with the winter but many cannot cope during those wet cold winter months. Small, senior and vulnerable dogs can suffer from many health problems when it’s cold and great care has to be taken when walking them.

Dogs like the snow and like playing in it. But when the weather turns much colder you have to take extra precautions with them. Just like infants they need to be kept warm and protected from the elements. So how do you make your daily walk comfortable for you and your dog?

Many small dogs need to wear a warm fitted dog coat to keep their body temperature up and refrain them from getting cold. Dog coats also protect their internal organs and the skin from the cold too. Dog jackets also help them keep much dryer, especially in the wet weather. Being small means that their bodies will get colder much quicker than a larger breed. Also if they have shorter legs their bodies are closer to the wet snowy ground.

Many dogs can also suffer from various foot conditions if they are constantly walking in wet slushy weather. The ‘grit’ that many local councils use to melt the ice can contain high levels of salt and chemicals which don’t do your dog’s paws any good at all. The grit has a large amount of salt in it and this salt can be a big problem for your dog’s feet. It can cause surface damage to a dog’s paws, possibly leading to infections which can cause many weeks of treatment. And the salt can be ingested by the dog if it self cleans and licks it’s paws. These ingested ice melting salts contain calcium chloride and sodium chloride and can cause problems for your dog.

All dog’s paws should be cleaned and dried when coming back from walks in the wet gritty snow. You can now buy dog shoes that keep their feet dry and protected from the harsh ice and snow. Some dogs will take a dislike to wearing them, but in time they can get used to wearing them.

Some dogs suffer from cracked paw pads during the extremely cold winter months. Rub a soothing paw pad lotion onto the dog’s paws if they become irritated. If the cracking is severe the dog will require the care of a veterinarian.

Also large snow falls can cause problems for walking your dog. Many small short legged breeds can get swamped in snow when being taken out for a walk and they can become dangerously cold withing minutes.

Many dog owners use a dog stroller during the winter months. This will enable the dog owner to transport their pet safely to the doggy park or nearest dog friendly recreation ground. The dog can remain warm and dry until they reach their designated spot for their exercise. They can then do their running, exercise and any toilet business before getting dried off and placed back into the snug stroller.

It also benefits the dog owner too. They can take their dog for their walk quickly and efficiently and the stroller can also help keep them stable and upright in the wet slippery conditions. All good pet strollers have well designed treaded wheels that can cope with all weather conditions including ice and snow. A pet stroller will also prevent you from being pulled over on a slipper path, especially from leash pulling, particularly if you have a dog that pulls when being walked.

Many dogs will be very eager to go out on a wet snowy day but their attitude can quickly change when they have had enough of the cold. Some small dogs can only cope for about 10 minutes or so in thick snow and may come to a stand still and refuse to go any further. A pet stroller will get your dog back home quickly rather than you having to carry them back when walking on a slippery pavement which is extremely dangerous for both you and the dog. Both of you could break bones as you fall or worse still, you could seriously hurt your dog if you should fall on them.

A pet stroller is also very handy for taking your dog to vet appointments when the weather is cold and snowy. Inside the stroller the dog is warm, dry and protected which is essential if they are poorly or have a dressed wound.

Not only is a pet stroller a great way to care for your dog during the winter but there are other ways to keep them at their best. Here is a summary of winter dog walking and care tips to keep them in tip top condition.

For tips and advice on caring for your dog during the other seasons of the year, just click on the season images below!