New Orleans Cold Weather Pet Care and Dog Walking Tips

As we get closer to winter, temperatures are continuing to get colder in our area. While we welcome the relief from the summer heat, winter weather brings its own set of challenges for dog owners. But what can you do as a pet owner to protect your pet from cold or wintery weather? We have compiled a list of things to consider during winter months, and some ideas for keeping your dog exercised and active during this time. Winter pet safety depends on you being prepared and being aware of what to expect for your dog during these months. 

With the cooler weather, we also lose a lot of daylight in the evening when most of us are able to get out for a walk. You may try changing up your routine and taking morning dog walks, but this isn’t possible for everyone. If you do need to walk around dusk or after dark be sure to keep a flashlight with you, wear bright clothing, and utilize reflectors. It is important for you to wear bright colors to be seen more easily by drivers passing by. Reflectors are a great addition and you can usually get a leash or dog collar that have them as well. If you recently adopted a puppy you may also be wondering how to train them to walk on leash, if this is you read our blog “How to Train Your Dog to Walk on A Lead”

Walking your dog in cold weather can pose a variety of problems. Your dog is likely to lick their paws after a walk in the cold to clean them and dry them, and can easily ingest residue from antifreeze or other chemicals left by cars. You might also consider investing in some booties for your dog. These might take some practice before your dog is comfortable in them, but can protect your dog’s feet from chemicals, sharp ice pieces, or anything else on the road or sidewalk. 

Ice, rain, and cold can dry out your dog’s paws and skin. It is best to reduce the number of baths you give your pet during this time, and consider getting something to condition their skin with. Your veterinarian or local pet store can help you find a good solution to dry, itchy skin. Towel dry your pet as soon as you come in from wet weather and consider running a humidifier in your home. Your dog’s paws are likely to become more dry and cracked in the winter. This can make walking painful, and can cause stinging or other pain if your dog steps in something unsafe. Again, ask your veterinarian or local pet store for recommendations on which salves to use on your pet’s paws. Always make sure products you are using are safe for dogs. 

While walking your pet is an excellent form of exercise, it is not always the best option in the winter. Here are some great ideas to keep your pup engaged and active during the cold weather months. If you have stairs or a clear hallway, you can jog up and down them with your dog to burn some energy. You might try this multiple times a day when you are unable to go outside due to cold or winter weather. Keep away or hide and seek are also great stimulating games for your pup. You can try hiding treats in one room of your home, then let your dog in to hunt for them. You can also try hiding from your dog and getting them to find you. For keepaway, just toss your dog’s toy back and forth with someone. Make sure to let them get the toy fairly often so they don’t lose interest though! Tug of war or a toned down game of fetch are also great for engaging your pet in the winter months. Just be careful of furniture and other items that may get knocked over. It might be best to clear a space for these activities if possible. You can also teach your dog new tricks to beat the cold weather blues this winter. Start with basics such as sit, lay down, and stay…then work your way up to tricks such as shake, high five, roll over, speak, and more! 

Many dog breeds actually do like cold weather and can tolerate being outside for longer lengths of time. Most dogs are not this way though, and it is important to keep them safe when the weather gets cold. If your dog is going to be outside or in your yard for any length of time be sure to provide some basic necessities to keep them warm. Protecting your pets is your responsibility as a dog owner, and can be done in just a few simple steps. Ensure that your dog has plenty of fresh drinking water that does not freeze over. Dogs need just as much water in the dry winter months as they do in the heat of summer. Your dog also needs to have a shelter to protect them from the cold, wind, and other elements. A simple enclosure is not sufficient though, be sure to lay down some straw or other padding, with some blankets to help your dog retain their body heat. Even with a shelter provided, leaving your dog outside in the cold can lead to hypothermia or even death. Please be sure to check on your dog frequently and keep them indoors as much as possible. We also encourage you to open a conversation with your veterinarian about what temperatures might be too cold for your dog. Factors such as size, coat type, and age can all factor into keeping your pet safe in the cold. If your dog is used to being outside while you’re at work, you might consider hiring a dog walker to help out during the winter months. This allows you to keep your pet inside where they can stay warm, but they can still get their potty break and exercise during the day. 

How else can you protect your dog from the cold? Because unfortunately, they do need to go outside at some point to “do their business”. Small dogs and short-haired dogs can be more susceptible to cold weather, but any dog can become too cold depending on the circumstances. It is important to remember that if it is too cold for you, it is too cold for them. Just because dogs have a fur coat, does not mean that they can just be out in cold weather without any issues. Even dogs with thick, long fur coats can have trouble being out in the cold. Consider getting a sweater for your small or short-haired dog for while they are outside. 

For keeping your pet safe and healthy during the winter, it is always best to err on the side of caution. Please keep them indoors when possible and provide ample shelter to them if they do need to be outdoors. We know you want to keep your dog as healthy and as safe as possible so please use caution when venturing out in the cold! 

As we get closer to winter, temperatures are continuing to get colder in our area. While we welcome the relief from the summer heat, winter weather brings its own set of challenges for dog owners. But what can you do as a pet owner to protect your pet from cold or wintery weather? We have…