Dogs in the Snow

We all love to take our dogs out in the snow and our dogs love being out in the snow. However, there are some things to be aware of when dogs are in the snow.

 

Dogs eating the snow  

When dogs are running about in the snow they may scoop some up in their mouths when they run or just stop and eat mouthfuls. This can result in them having a chill in their stomach and in turn can lead to frequent urination or diarrhoea. So if your dog eats snow it may suffer from any of these conditions.

 

Dogs running in the snow  

When dogs running in snow, balls of snow can build up on the hair on their feet, this can cause the dog to limp or stop and

hold their foot up. In cases like this all that is required is to lift the dogs paw and clear the snow out with your finger and that will

enable the dog to continue enjoy themselves again.

 

Grit, Salt and Sand  

When snow is on the ground roads and pavements will be ‘gritted’ with grit, salt or sand. This can cause a dog to limp and to clear this they will lick their foot. Licking the ‘grit’ of their foot can result in sickness or diarrhoea. It is always advisable when your walk is finished after  walking on a gritted area to wash your dog’s feet. A basin of lukewarm water and a cloth at the end of your walk will clean your dog’s feet and stop grit being brought into the house and kennel.

 

Frosty Pavements/Roads  

When pavements or roads are covered in frost this can be painful for dogs to walk on. When walking dogs in conditions like this it can make it  easier and less painful for them, if, before  going on the walk, the dogs’ feet are smeared with Vasoline. This will stop a dogs feet sticking to the pavement and make the walk more enjoyable for them.

 

So, go out and enjoy yourself with your dog and look out for the side-effects when you return home.