Rhody Pets: Winter weather solutions for your pup

Dogs and snow seem like a picturesque combination – snowflake-dusted noses, and paws leaving a “follow me” trail of prints across shimmering blankets of white, but there are a few things to consider before you go walking in a winter wonderland.

THAT’S NO SNOW CONE

Many dogs enjoy an impromptu sidewalk slushie, chomping at the refreshing ice, but make sure they are not lapping up any swirls of blue or green, especially around cars and driveways – antifreeze is sweet-tasting but toxic to pets. Scattered rock salt can also upset your dog’s stomach; they can accidentally ingest this grit by licking their paws clean after a walk. Simply wipe off their feet with a soft towel before stepping back into the house. The action will also help warm their chilly paw pads.

SNOW BOOTS

Speaking of keeping those tootsies toasty, dog booties are a great option for warmth and protection. But pups often do an awkward prance on the first wear, finding it hard to find their footing without their natural sensory contact with the ground. One way around this is to pop on the leash and break into a little trot so their instinctive rhythm overrides their confusion or initial discomfort.

WAX ON, WAX OFF

You wouldn’t be without your lip balm or hand cream in the winter, so soothe (or better yet, prevent) nose and paw dryness and cracking with all-natural moisturizer, like Kin+Kind’s Nose and Paw Moisturizer for Dogs and Cats. Apply a light layer and gently massage until the shea butter and jojoba oil is absorbed.

MARK THE SPOT

Some dogs are wary about exploring a yard buried deep in snow, especially when the drifts are deeper than they are tall! Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness recently modeled the solution for his little terrier Elton by shoveling clear a square of grass. The dog has a designated patch to scamper for an efficient potty break.

WINTER WORK OUT

While some dogs get an extra spring in their step in the snow, others shiver and want to head straight back inside. You might feel the same way about an hour-long walk when icy gusts are chasing you down the street! Puzzle feeders are great for focus and mental stimulation. Indoor games and toys (like Bark Box’s Sub-Zero Chill Box) can help release energy prior to that fireside snooze!