The holiday season is rapidly approaching and along with It comes the harsh winter weather. Although our furry friends seem to have ample protection with their fluffy coats, they can still be vulnerable to the wintery conditions. Here are a few tips to help you keep your dog safe and warm this holiday season.

 Try to limit outdoor play: Dogs are just as susceptible to the cold weather as we are.
They can easily get frostbite or hypothermia. Even if your dog is meant for inclement weather, they are not designed to withstand it for long periods of time, especially without activity or exercise.

 Dress them warmly: This tip is very important especially if you have a dog with short hair or a smaller dog. Even with a sweater on they are still exposed to the chilly air, their ears, nose, and eyes are most likely to be affected. It would also be smart to purchase some dog boots or socks, this will help avoid direct contact with cold cement/ice. You should also take extra precautions with older dogs and puppies, they can have trouble maintaining their body heat.

 Keep their paws clean: If you don’t have the desire to buy your dog boots but still want to take them out in chilly conditions, it’s very important to clean off their paws when you return home. Ice melt and chemicals like antifreeze can get stuck to their paws and may cause illness if they decide to lick them. Also, check for any injuries to the dog’s paws. Ice and snow can cause painful cracks and cuts.

 Don’t leave them in the car: Just like you wouldn’t leave your dog in the car in the summer, you shouldn’t do it in the winter either. You should also be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Seek medical help if you

You should also be aware of the signs of hypothermia and frostbite. Seek medical help if you see any of the following:

 Whining or acting anxious

 Unable to stop shivering

 Acting weak or low energy

 Slowed movement