Cold Weather and Canines: Tips to Keep Them Safe and Warm

Cold weather, ice, snow can be very deadly if you're not prepared, well it can be just as deadly to animals and dogs left outside without the proper shelter and a dog house won't cut it. 

Animals are just as sensitive to weather as we are. They can adapt and change but in some places where its not all too common it can be deadly. Here are some tips for you too keep your fury family members safe this cold winter season, especially for the south where it doesn't do this too often. 

1) Keep your dogs and cats inside. Keep them safe and warm. They, especially small dogs and cats, are prone to freezing. Let's keep them safe and keep them indoors. 

2) During the coldest days, outdoor cats and other animals have been known to sneak into the engine compartments of vehicles. This can be a deadly mistake for trying to keep warm when you go to start your car. Be sure to give the hood a few good smacks so they know its time to go and just to be sure it's always a good decision to look under the hood, just in case. 

3) When walking your dogs, please keep them on the leash. In most cities and states it is actually required by law that dogs remain on a leach when outside your home or a confined yard. This helps keep them safe and near you at all times. 

4) After returning home from a walk, be sure to wipe off any snow or dust from your dogs paws, legs and body. They could ingest salt, antifreeze or other chemicals you may not notice when they start to clean themselves and their paws. Be on the safe side and make sure you keep a towel handy by the door. 

5) Never shave a dog in the winter. Their coat grows thicker to keep them warm. For short fur be sure you buy them a comfortable sweater to wear while they are outside. Help them stay warm just like you'd wear a coat to keep yourself warm. Imagine being naked outside, that's pretty close to what it's like for them. 

6) Never leave your animals in the car in the winter. Just like the heat can make it an oven, the cold can make it a fridge. Either way it's not good for them. Bring them in with you or leave them comfy and cozy at home where they will be safe.

7) Puppies and older dogs are more sensitive to the weather, especially cold weather. Try doggie pads for them until the weather evens out and it's more comfortable for them. 

8) The floor is often where they lay most, but you'll notice in the winter time they prefer a rug or covered space. If you haven't already be sure you get them a bed to lay on away from any draft areas. This will keep them warm, happy and comfortable on the colder nights.


Your animals should be a part of your family and not a lawn ornament. If you can't welcome them into your home then please allow someone else to care for them who will. Leaving them outdoors to suffer through the elements every day is not necessary and it is not an act of kindness. These animals love you and only want your love in return. Keep them safe, well fed and well loved and you will find that love returned in abundance for all they know how to do is love us back. 

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Original Blog Post: http://www.bubblews.com/news/2303321-cold-weather-and-canine039s