We are in the heart of winter and many of us are feeling the effects, with plenty of people getting sick, dealing with the flu and other seasonal health problems. And as pet owners, we might be concerned about our dog's health and well-being.
So you might be wondering how we can keep our dogs from getting sick during these cold days and nights. And we were curious as well, as the last thing we want to see is our pup not feeling well because of the weather.
In order to get an expert's advice on how to keep our dogs feeling their best in the winter, we reached out to the animal behavior and health expert from Camp Bow Wow for answers. Erin Askeland was happy to answer our health question. So what did she share with us?
How can we prevent our dogs from getting sick in the winter?
After asking about preventing winter sickness in our dogs, Erin Askeland explained the following:
"Keeping your dog healthy during the winter months starts with a few proactive steps. Make sure they’re bundled up with a jacket for walks if they have a short coat or are smaller in size (often needed in extra cold climates. You also want to ensure they stay hydrated by offering multiple sources of fresh, clean water daily."
It makes sense that we need to be proactive when it comes to caring for our dogs. And knowing what they need to stay warm when they head outside in the cold is also extremely important. While we may think we know that our dogs will be okay, it can't hurt to talk to your vet even about whether or not they need to wear a sweater in the winter.
Askeland continued by saying that, "Maintaining a balanced diet and watching the extra treats during the winter may also help since many people (and their dogs by association) become less active during the winter. Keeping up with regular veterinary check-ups can also help catch potential issues early, so don’t skip on those annual or semi-annual exams even if you don’t have any major concerns! It’s also important to discuss preventative measures with your veterinarian so they can help you make the best choices for your pup’s lifestyle."
She continued by reminding us that activity is also very important. As she shared, "remember, fun indoor play, enrichment, and training can help keep them active when it's too chilly outside! Another great option is to visit a local doggy day care to let your pup play and romp to get their needed physical activity."
Honestly, everything that Erin Askeland has shared makes perfect sense. And we hope that what she shared helps pet parents to keep their pups from getting sick this winter if possible.