We must be aware that dogs, just like us, feel the cold. Regardless of breed and coat type, our pets may be suffering the effects of temperature change below 4 degrees Celsius, in the coldest times of the year, wherever we live or develop our joint activity. Our dog has a layer of hair and fat in the skin that protects him thermally, but, in certain occasions, this natural protection can be insufficient and, therefore, allow the cold to penetrate his body.
If we do not prevent the cold, the dog’s immune system can be weakened and become very vulnerable to different pathologies.
If our companion does not belong to one of the breeds adapted to the coldest northern climates, or its short-haired nature does not offer it this protection, we must be careful to prevent it from getting cold and suffering possible consequences. Above all, we should watch out for the weakest and most prone to get cold; puppies, elderly and sick dogs.
To prevent the effects of the cold, we can follow a few simple tips that will help our pet to enjoy the winter and not to suffer its consequences:
Condition the environment of the house to maintain a stable temperature between 19 and 25 degrees Celsius, avoiding drafty areas.
Use sweaters, layers and waterproof coats when it is very cold outside.
Condition your bed with a blanket to keep it warmer and use a cottage if you sleep outside the house.
Take walks during the hours when there is sunlight.
Use specific moisturizing creams for dogs, on their paws (pads) and ears, to prevent them from drying out or cracking, especially when they step on snow.
Dry it very well when returning home when it has gotten wet during a walk or play.
In puppies and elderly dogs we can apply a careful massage on the muscles that present stiffness, and even help with a hot compress for 15 minutes.
If we do not prevent the cold, the dog’s immune system can be weakened and become very vulnerable to different pathologies. And, above all, even if it is cold there are parasites, such as fleas and ticks, that do not disappear during the winter, due to the heaters in our homes. So our dog needs that we keep the periodic revisions that your veterinarian prescribes us to maintain the internal and external deworming, by means of the Double Monthly Protection.