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Most dogs LOVE snow. Which is great for pups in Wheeling, as we typically have plenty of the stuff to go around. There’s nothing quite like watching your best pal dive headfirst into a snowbank only to emerge, vigorously shaking the flakes from his coat, before taking another hearty plunge.

Just like kids, dogs just can’t seem to get enough a good snow day. As pet parents, however, it’s important to keep in mind that wintry weather can pose certain dangers for our pets.

Some dogs are more sensitive to colder weather than others, too. Dogs that are thin, short-haired, advancing in years, or puppies, will get chilled more quickly than their peers, and hypothermia and frostbite are two big concerns when the barometer starts to drop, and old man winter shows his face.

Keep your dog safe from the cold this winter with these five, frosty tips:

  1. Make sure your dog has shelter: Dogs really shouldn’t be left outside for extended periods of time in the winter, regardless of whether they are free to roam the rest of the year. Temperatures can drop rapidly, posing severe health risks to our pets. Walk your dog regularly, or allow outside only for short, supervised periods of time. Otherwise, bring them in with the rest of the family for the holidays and until the warmer months return.
  2. Throw on a sweater! Short haired dogs, in particular, are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, and any exposed skin – on ears, paws, and noses – can experience a nasty sting from the chilled weather. Sweaters, even for brief walks, can help to keep your dog safe from the cold – and stylish at the same time.
  3. Beware chemicals: Sometimes, keeping your dog safe from the cold means keeping them safe from the solvents and abrasives that homeowners and businesses use to keep their sidewalks and porches clear. Rock salt, for instance, is a considerable irritant for your dog’s paws – and potentially dangerous if they lick it off. Be sure to wipe your dog’s paws clean with a warm, damp towel when you come in from the cold. Antifreeze, too, is high on the list of winter warnings. While ingestion can be hazardous, if not fatal, its sweet taste is sometimes too appealing to animals. If using for your vehicles, be sure to immediately clean any spills and keep bottles out of reach and out of sight.
  4. Avoid separation anxiety: Be sure to keep your dog leashed when you’re out on a wintry walk. Snowfall can be disorienting for dogs, as it masks the familiar scents that could lead them home if and when lost. Don’t take any chances. Take time to ensure that your dog’s tags are current with identifying information and consider microchipping your pet if you haven’t yet.
  5. Choose a responsible resort partner: Even our pets need a change of scenery from time to time – especially during the winter, when getting outdoors can sometimes be challenging for their pet-parents. A visit to your local pet resort for a day at doggie daycare, or perhaps an even longer vacation, can be a nice change of pace, complete with dog-friendly fun and activities. But do your homework beforehand and make certain your dog resort of choice is as serious about keeping your dog safe from the cold as you are.

Waggles Pet Resort treats your pets like family. In addition to all-suite accommodations that feature every creature comfort a dog could ever want – privacy, soft bedding, and personal attention from caregivers – we are also committed to providing a safe and warm environment for your pet.

Our new facility is fully temperature-controlled and sanitized with cutting-edge cleaning systems. Additionally, our three outdoor yards are under 24-hour surveillance. Waggles Pet Resort also features canine-friendly turf designed to keep your dog’s paws comfortable, clean, and irritant-free.

Call Waggles Pet Resort at 847-994-4855 to learn more and to schedule your stay!