With Christmas almost here and more than a nip in the air, the big freeze has certainly begun. A lot of places throughout England/Wales/Scotland/NI have been affected by the sudden snow already and I don't doubt there's more to come. With that in mind, I wanted to take few minutes out to make 5 essential points that I hope you'll keep in mind when the white stuff hits!
1. Many people enjoy taking their dogs for a walk and nothing beats an early morning ramble in a winter wonderland but be aware of the dangers that may lie in your path. Everything from sharp black or broken ice, to unforeseen dangers such as broken bottles concealed in the snow drifts, are all too common. Ice and broken bottles (etc) can cut paws and may lead to a trip to the vets. Fore warned is fore armed!
2. When the salt grit trucks are out in force, a route change may be for the best. If that's not possible, then you should be sure to wash your dogs paws thoroughly in warm soapy water after your walk. Salt grit will irritate pads and can upset tummies if ingested during a cleaning session. For your dogs comfort it's best to gently dry their paws after, no one likes cold feet! If your dogs paws do become sore, irritated or even cracked, there are several 'paw treatments' out there that will help soothe them. (Always consult your vet first!)
3. This is probably the most important piece of advice any dog owner/walker will ever receive... Stay away from frozen ponds/lakes. Even if it's 'not that deep'. Even if the ice 'seems thick'. Never ever risk it, because it could be your dogs life, and your own, that will be lost. Sadly this is something we hear about year after year and only today another dog and owner were lost to icy waters. If your route involves/comes close to any frozen water, a river, stream, lake or pond, please keep your dog on a lead and stay well away. The risk is simply too great.
4. I've mentioned sharp/broken/cracked ice being a problem, but even seemingly harmless smooth ice can be an issue for young puppies, golden oldies or otherwise fragile dogs. Avoid ice as much as possible, no doggy wants a sprained or broken leg for Christmas! Games of 'fetch' will be best played indoors or on soft snow :)
5. Finally, keep your doggies warm! They have their fur of course, (well, most do) but with bitter cold winds and possible snow on the ground, a nice thick coat will surely be appreciated, as will an extra blanket in their beds and a warm lap to lie on! (Few can deny the winter snuggles being a 'win' for both doggie and human).
The festive season is full of fun and being in the know is the best way to stay safe :) Between this post, our 'Christmas Safety' post and the upcoming New Years post, hopefully you'll be clued up and ready to enjoy the holidays with your whole family.
One last thing I feel I should mention, don't eat the yellow snow! ;)
Be safe and enjoy the festive season with your furries,
Love and licks,
Rio, Jonny, Buffy, Rafferty, Monroe, Lily and Lola.
xo
P.S As an extra but important precaution, it's wise to check your vets opening times and out of hours service arrangements over the Christmas/New Year period. It's always best to avoid being caught out or put in a tricky situation. Be safe and be prepared.
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