Winter is here. The days are getting shorter, the temperatures are dropping and your dog’s skin is getting itchy. Winter weather can be extremely harsh on your dog, affecting both their skin and paws. It’s important to follow some practical tips to maintain your pets overall well-being in the winter months.
FlipFlop Dogs, a Cleveland-based franchise business that provides an alternative to kenneling, has the following four tips to help 'winterize' your pets.
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1. Skin Care. The dry winter air depletes the moisture in your dog’s skin. You can overcome this issue by keeping a humidifier in the house and by reducing their number of baths. Brushing them regularly also helps to improve their skin’s moisture, maintain their coat and regulate their blood flow circulation. If you have a senior dog or a dog with a thin coat, consider getting them a coat or sweater to wear outside.
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2. Protect Paws. Booties are especially important to protect against snow from balling up in their paws, prevent the salt and de-icing chemicals to get on their paws, and to help them grip on the snow and ice.
3. Beware of Chemicals. Antifreeze can taste good to your dog, but can be extremely toxic. Keep a careful eye on your dog when they are outside to make sure they do not eat the snow or lick areas that could have antifreeze. You can also wash their paws off when they get inside to prevent them from ingesting the antifreeze or salt that they picked up on their paws (if they aren’t wearing booties).
4. Food Intake. If you have a dog that loves to play in the snow, increase their daily food intake to help them maintain their energy level and to keep their coat thick. Their body is working in overtime when they are in the cold outdoor temperatures, which leads to an increase in the calories they burn.
About FlipFlop® Dogs
Founded in 2011 and franchising since 2013, FlipFlop Dogs is the alternative to kenneling that specializes in matching its furry customers with “Companion Families” who maintain the dog’s day-to-day routine. The company’s mission is to give dogs a joyful vacation experience while providing peace of mind for their owners that their canine is being cared for in a safe, loving home environment while they are away. For more information, visit www.flipflopdogs.com.