Dogs need special care in winters: Expert

It is important to pay special attention to your dog’s well-being during the winter season. This was stated by Dr Kirti Dua, in charge, Wild life Centre and professor of Veterinary Medicine, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, while interacting with pet owners at the veterinary hospital. “Don’t leave dogs outside in the cold for long period of time. Provide shelter to keep your dog warm and dry.”  Dua said some dog breeds have dense undercoats that help in protecting them against very cold temperature, but most dogs should wear a coat to protect them from the winter chill. The expert from GADVASU said, “Tiles and uncarpeted areas may become extremely cold. Make sure to place your dog’s bed in a warm spot, away from draft, cold tile or uncarpeted floors.” She said dogs often seek heat during the winters snuggling too close to heating sources which can burn them. “So be very careful of supplemental heat sources and make sure that all portable heaters and lamps are out of reach,” said the expert. It takes more energy in the winter to keep body temperature regulated, so additional calories are necessary if the dog spends a lot of time outdoors. “But if it is not staying out, then don’t overfeed it. Alcohol and chocolate are toxic for dogs, even in small amounts. Keep unhealthy, sweet treats and seasonal goodies out of reach,” said Dua. Dua cautioned that dogs can dehydrate just as quickly in the winter as in summer. “Groom your dog regularly. Your dog needs a well-groomed coat to keep it insulated. Short or coarse-haired dogs may get extra cold, so consider a sweater or coat for the sake of their well-being. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide them with more warmth,” added the expert. She further added, “After bathing, dry your dog adequately, especially before allowing it to go outdoors. Towel or blow dry your dog if it gets wet from rain. It is important to dry and clean its paws too. A little petroleum jelly softens the pads and prevents further cracking.” “In winters, antifreeze is often used for automobiles. Antifreeze is extremely toxic and just a small amount can be fatal for dogs,” warned the expert. Cold weather will often aggravate existing medical conditions in dogs, particularly arthritis. It is very important to maintain an exercise regimen with arthritic dog. “Like people, dogs seem to be more susceptible to illness in the winter. Take your dog to a veterinarian if you see any suspicious symptoms,” Dua added. — TNS