5 Great Ways to Keep Your Dog Active and Healthy During the Winter Months
If you’re like most people, leaving the comforts of your warm home to venture outside during the colder days of winter takes motivation! Dogs like most people feel good once they return from a long walk outdoors. Exercise during the winter months is just as important for your canine companion as it is during the spring and summer. Here are a few great ways to help keep your dog healthy and happy during the colder days of winter.
Schedule Outdoor Walks
Dogs as well as their owners are creatures of habit. Your dog will become conditioned to anticipating his/her outdoor walk if it happens around the same time each day. Set out a time that works best for your lifestyle. If your dog is home all day on its own, maybe schedule your walk as soon as you get home. Your pet will be ready to burn off energy, while you can unwind from your workday.
Take Part in Locally Sponsored Doggy Daycares and Activities
Check your area for dog walking parks, doggy daycares, dog walkers, and other animal activities. Canine agility classes are a great way to meet other dog owners and their dogs while gaining discipline and exercise for your dog! Many communities have hydrotherapy and swimming pools for dogs.
Monitor Your Dogs Weight During Winter
If your dog becomes too inactive during the winter months it’s advisable to talk with your Veterinarian. You may have to modify the amount of food your dog eats or find indoor activities for your pet. Did you know there are treadmills on the market that are designed specifically for dogs?
Invest in a Pet Coat and Booties
Pet coats aren’t only used to keep short haired dogs warm on colder winter days; they are great for keeping long haired dogs much drier in the rain and snow. Once your dog is used to wearing booties, you’ll reap the benefits of protecting paws, cleaner floors, and limiting paw injury.
Clean Paws After Every Walk
Chemicals and toxic runoff will be on roadways, paths, and grasses; toxins are dependent on the season. During the winter months road salt and de-icing chemicals as well as anti-freeze will pose a threat to your dog. The soft pads of their paws will absorb these substances from outside surfaces.
Wash your dog’s paws with warm soapy water and pat dry after every outing to prevent your dog from ingesting any toxic residue. Make sure the household cleaners you use are pet safe products as well!
If you are unable to walk outside during the winter months, you may consider hiring a dog walker or doggy daycare. Call Pet City Canada to ask about our services and rates!