Dog Colds
It seems that with the winter season comes a whole slew of sniffling noses. Although your pooch can’t catch cold from you, they can develop their own form of upper respiratory infection, better coined as a dog cold. The symptoms of a human cold and a dog cold are strikingly similar but can’t be passed from dog to human or vice-versa. Just as in humans, a dog cold arises from viruses or bacteria that are spread from other animals, and weakened immune systems are susceptible to falling victim. Common dog colds typically settle once the immune system strengthens, but untreated symptoms may result in serious health problems. Other serious health issues may mask themselves with common doggie cold symptoms, so bring your pooch to the vet if you notice signs of sneezing, coughing, runny eyes/noses, congestion, or decreased energy and appetite to revive your pup’s health and avoid worsened conditions. If your canine does come down with a common (dog) cold, be sure to evade contact with other animals until the contagious microorganisms diminish. Improperly treated upper respiratory infections have a possibility of evolving into dangerous cases of Pneumonia that require immediate attention. If you notice your pooch has come down with a cold you should always make an appointment with the vet, but there are some home remedies to help the recovery process. For example, canines suffering from a cold may not have much of an appetite, so feeding your sick pup some extra boiled chicken and rice is a great way to help put food in their belly. It may also be a good idea to keep a mist vaporizer near your dog’s resting spot to help with breathing. Don’t have your canine outside for too long, and when they are, bundle them in necessary dog boots and dog coats for protection against winter conditions. To avoid pesky colds do your best to keep Rover warm this winter and stay alert of symptoms!
Doggie Winter Fashion
Dog clothes and accessories are a great way to express your pooch’s personality in style, but dog attire is also a fashionable way to practically prepare for winter weather. Sport your pup in a winter dog coat to keep cold temperatures from chilling your dog to the bone. A winter dog coat is also great for blocking winds. Such a change in climate could cause your canine to fall ill, which is why providing the proper outdoor coverage for your pooch plays an important role in avoiding any winter sicknesses. Another great doggie winter wear investment includes a trusted set of dog boots to protect puppy paws from jagged terrain, sharp ice, and freezing temperatures. Dogs sweat through the pads on their paws, so only keep dog boots on when needed during trips outside. With such a drop in temperature, it is always important to accommodate your pooch to the weather change. Some breeds, like the Siberian Huskie, are made for winter seasons, while other breeds, such as the Chihuahua, are not physically made to withstand cold temperatures. Dress your dog accordingly with their needs, and have a warm winter!
Winterizing Your Dog
Winter can provide some harsh temperatures and weather conditions that require some adjustments. People living in colder winter climates are frantically putting plastic around their windows for insulation, gearing up their cars with dependable tires, and bundling up in down jackets before venturing outside. With this entire preparation taking place, it is important not to forget about your dog.
Brrr!
Chances are if you’re cold, your canine is too. Invest in a cozy dog coat to protect your pooch in. Some dog breeds have dense undercoats that are helpful in winter weather, but many breeds could use the extra warmth of a dog coat in the colder seasons. Browse dog coat options to find the best fit for your furry friend. Puppy paws are another victim to harsh temperatures – a set of dog boots will keep your pooch’s paws free to roam about without being effected by salt, ice, snow, and slush.
ZZZ…
Sleeping is an important thing for anybody, including your pup. Provide your pooch with a well-suited dog bed and keep it in a spot away from cold tiles, uncarpeted floors, and any drafts. Staying warm while trying to snooze will eliminate tossing and turning for your deserving dog.
Burns
Because climates get so chilly in the winter, your pooch may seek out heat wherever they can find it. Snuggling too close to a space heater, heating lamp, or radiator could cause your canine to suffer from unnecessary burns. Be sure to watch your dog around any heaters in the house, including the fireplace. Use a cover for your radiator and make sure to only keep heaters on when you are in the room.
MMM…
Winters is infamous for hibernation and packing on some extra pounds, but try not to over feed your hungry hound. Winter conditions cut down on your canine’s outside activity and over feeding will only add unneeded bulk to your pup’s body. Keep your dog exercised with indoor activities and keep their diet balanced, an overweight dog can cause health problems.
