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While dogs may love playing outside, winter weather can cause health issues for them. For example, just like humans, canines can succumb to risks like frostbite and hypothermia. If it’s freezing out, Countryside Veterinary Service urges owners to keep their dogs inside and only let them out for a few minutes at a time. When you decide to venture out, this Northeastern Ohio and Northwestern Pennsylvania pet clinic offers some advice to keep your pup safe.

5 Pet Clinic Strategies for Keeping Dogs Safe in Winter Weather

1. Dress for the Season

pet clinicWhile dogs have fur to keep them warm, they still get cold. If you need to wear a jacket to stay comfortable outside, it’s likely that your pet needs protection too. When you go for walks, dress your pup in a properly fitted, insulated jacket. If it’s snowy outside, you might also consider a set of dog boots to protect their paws.

2. Wash Paws After Walks

Chemical de-icers and road salt can irritate the paws and can be toxic if they’re ingested by your dog. As such, it’s important to keep an eye on how their paws are handling surfaces and to wipe them clean before coming into the house. If you’re concerned about the risk, choose dog boots instead.  

3. Insulate the Dog House

If the weather is comfortable enough for your pet to spend extended periods outdoors, it’s critical to give them a place where they can warm up and stay shielded from winter wind. While a standard dog house may provide some shelter from the elements, you should also add insulating materials to the structure—such as blankets and beds—to keep things warm.

4. Warm Water

If you’re keeping your pet outdoors, provide them with plenty of fresh water, so they can avoid the risk of dehydration. If freezing is a risk, it can help to invest in a dish that keeps the water warm.

5. Groom Regularly

When snow and dirt accumulate in your pup’s coat, this risk of matting increases. In addition to causing pain, these tangled clumps of fur can minimize the amount of natural insulation a dog has from the cold. For that reason, it’s important to brush and cut away mats every time your canine companion has a play session in the snow.  

While these tips can prevent problems, it’s critical to act quickly if you spot signs of hypothermia, including whining, shivering, severe fatigue, low body temperature, and weakness. Cover your pet in blankets, provide them with warm fluids, and visit Countryside Veterinary Service for emergency pet care. Equipped with experienced veterinarians and the latest medical resources, this pet clinic is a top resource for all animal emergencies, including hypothermia, dehydration, and frostbite. To schedule an appointment, visit the website

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