Special Care for Dogs This Winter

Jan 13, 2012 by Dog Breeds News Desk

This winter, as the temperature drops, dog breeds of any kind need special care to stay healthy and safe. The American Kennel Club (AKC) says that it is important to pay special attention to your dog’s well-being during the winter season.

Here are AKC’s tips in keeping our four-legged friends stay healthy and safe this winter:

.Antifreeze, which often collects on driveways and roadways, is highly poisonous. Although it smells and tastes good to your dog, it can be lethal.

.Rock salt, used to melt ice on sidewalks, may irritate footpads. Be sure to rinse and dry your dog’s feet after a walk.

.Provide plenty of fresh water. Your dog is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water.

.Frostbite is your dog’s winter hazard. To prevent frostbite on its ears, tail and feet, don’t leave your dog outdoors for too long.

.Be very careful of supplemental heat sources. Fireplaces and portable heaters can severely burn your dog. Make sure all fireplaces have screens, and keep portable heaters out of reach.

.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.