The weather is such that you can’t chase your dog out either…is one of the folk sayings applied to owners of four-legged dogs. However, it is not quite like that. There must be exceptionally unfavourable weather conditions not to go out for a walk with your dog, which rarely happens. Even on cold, windy days, a walk with your pet is advisable and even necessary. However, it is advisable to prepare your pet appropriately for this – provide warmth and protection against precipitation through clothing and, if necessary, protect its paws with booties or Vaseline.
Walking stimulates immunity
Physical activity is needed for your pet, first and foremost, to keep him in good shape and to stimulate his immune system. Therefore, despite adverse weather conditions, it should not be kept indoors. Of course, there are exceptional situations, e.g. during your pet’s illness, but, as to how to cope then, your vet will certainly tell you. It is important to remember that, as with humans, temperature shocks are dangerous for your pet. So before it leaves the house in the cold, it must be prepared for it. Clothes should be put on at the last moment, and after leaving the warm room, it is important that the pet remains in the hallway or cage.
Shorter, but more exercise
Walks can be a little shorter, but the dog should be as active as possible during this time. Larger dogs can be trained to sled (if possible), and smaller dogs should be given maximum playtime. Games such as tug-of-war, fetch, and sniffing for treats to take with them, as well as a variety of dog toys, work well. It is good if these are so-called interactive toys, which not only stimulate your pet’s physical activity, but also stimulate him mentally.
It should also be borne in mind that dogs kept on a leash and immobile, e.g. in front of a shop or in a car, are much more prone to hypothermia. It is difficult to call such an outing with a pet a walk, and it can end very badly for the four-legged animal.
A water container not just for ‘snow eaters’
Many dogs like to eat snow during their winter walk. Veterinarians, to whom the four-legged dogs are then taken, refer to such amateurs of the snow “delicacy” as “snowballs”. Dogs then become ill and catch colds, and if it was snow sprinkled with salt, the consequences can be more serious. It is therefore necessary to make sure that our pet does not eat the snow. It is advisable to give your dog a container of warm water, which, incidentally, is worth taking on every winter walk with your dog.
