Hounds Town USA dog daycare franchise is committed to helping pets stay safe all year round. We want to remind pet parents everywhere that, as the coldest time of the year approaches, it is important to make sure your furry friends are as safe, warm and comfortable as possible.
As the days grow shorter and colder, it’s easy to see that, in fact, winter is coming. Though the first day of winter 2019 technically isn’t until December 21, many cities across the U.S. have already begun to experience extreme winter weather and freezing temperatures. Each year, the weather changes we experience in the winter months can have a serious impact on our safety- from driving along snowy, icy roads to plumbing disasters caused by frozen pipes, winter is a time when caution should be exercised in all kinds of situations.
One of the more overlooked effects of winter is its impact on our four-legged friends. After all, humans aren’t the only ones who have to deal with the cold and snow! Our dogs can be at risk of a number of winter-related catastrophes if we aren’t careful to keep them safe, warm, and protected this season. Here are some tips from our Hounds Town USA dog daycare franchise experts for keeping your pups safe when the weather outside is frightful.
Never Leave Your Dog in a Car
Did you ever notice that the inside of your car seems colder than the outside air sometimes? If it’s colder for you, then your dog is feeling it too. Just like the “greenhouse effect” in a car is deadly in the summer, it’s just as dangerous to leave your pup in the car during the winter months. Just don’t do it! The ASPCA says that cars “act as refrigerators” during the winter, and it’s possible for your pet to freeze to death if left unattended.
The Risks of Rock Salt
Many people throw rock salt down on the sidewalks and driveways to clear the paths after a snowstorm. An effective method for sure, but dog paws are easily irritated by the poisonous chemical. And your pet could run into big trouble if he tries to lick off the toxic substance. Wipe down your dog’s paws gently after a walk, and always store your rock salt away from curious canines. The ASPCA also recommends booties or even a little petroleum jelly application on your dog’s paw pads before going outdoors this winter for extra protection.
Dog Sweaters Do More Than Just Look Cute!
The Humane Society advises getting your dog a sweater during the cold months, particularly short-haired breeds. Dogs are at risk for hypothermia, frostbite, and other temperature-related conditions, particularly if the wind chill is severe. It doesn’t take long for our furry friends to experience dangerous symptoms in the cold, so wear the sweater even if it’s just a short walk. Why take the risk? Besides keeping your dog warm, some of these sweaters are super cute like this Santa in the Snow sweater.
Increase Your Dog’s Food and Water
A dog’s body works harder to keep warm in the winter months, so the ASPCA advises that you give your dog a little more food to help them maintain healthy body temperature. Keep an eye on your pet’s water bowl too. A full clean bowl of water on hand can help ensure that your dog’s skin doesn’t get too itchy with the dry heat blasting in your house.
Leash Your Dog
Hazardous conditions like snow and ice make it much more dangerous for your dog on daily walks. During the winter especially, walk your dog on a leash. It will help prevent separation during storms, walking on ice that might not be safe, and more. And if it’s too cold, skip the walk. This way, you and your pet can stay safe.
Hounds Town USA stands out from other dog daycare franchise opportunities because we’re founded by a canine expert! Mike Gould began his career as a K9 unit trainer for the NYPD nearly 40 years ago, and has devoted the past three decades to learning and understanding canine behavior and psychology to help make a better world for the dogs he sees and interacts with each day. Hounds Town is committed to letting dogs be themselves, and builds their reputation upon providing a safe, interactive environment for dogs to run, jump, sniff, and play the day away. If you are interested in franchise opportunities with Hounds Town USA, please visit our website for more information.
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