Winter Safety Tips for Dogs
Keep your dog safe & healthy by following these winter safety tips
Keeping Your Mini Schnauzer Safe & Healthy During the Brutal Winter Months
The cold weather months can be brutal on all of us, including our pets. And it's a common misconception that dogs will be okay outside, even during the winter. But the truth of the matter is, our pets need protection from the cold weather just like we do. Here are some winter safety tips to follow to help ensure your Mini Schnauzer stays safe and healthy during the wintry months.
Top 10 Winter Safety Tips
- Antifreeze is Deadly! Even in small amounts, if ingested, antifreeze will destroy your dog's kidneys. Early signs of antifreeze poisoning include disorientation, followed by coma and death. So be sure to clean up any spills immediately and thoroughly. Keep antifreeze containers locked up! And most importantly, see your vet immediately if you suspect your Schnauzer of antifreeze poisoning.
- Paw Pads Chemicals and rock salt placed on icy roads and sidewalks can really do a number on your dog’s pads. Dog paw pads can become cracked or burned. Ingesting any of the chemicals can cause gastrointestinal problems. Always be sure to wash paw pads with warm water after walks. hint: Use pre-moistened pet wipes
 when rinsing off your dog's paws is not an option.bonus winter safety tip: Pawtection Adjustable Boots will protect your dogs paws year round. These water-resistant dog boots protect paws from snow, ice melt, gravel, sand and hot pavement while also providing traction on smooth indoor surfaces. bonus winter safety tip: Purchase eco-friendly and pet-friendly de-icer products for your sidewalks, door steps, and drive. Or you can use sand or cat litter. It won't melt the ice but will offer you and your pet good traction and they're safe for your schnauzer. - Regular Grooming It's important to keep your dog groomed during the winter months. His coat provides him insulation and in order to do its job properly, it needs to remain free of mats and knots. Keeping your dog's nails clipped and the hair between his pads trimmed, will help with traction and prevent the snow from clumping here, too.
bonus winter safety tip: Rub some vaseline on your dog's paw pads before going outside to prevent snow from sticking and again when he comes back inside to offer him soothing relief. - Winter Gear & Apparel Since it becomes dark so much earlier in the day, along with the reduced visibility created by inclement weather, using reflective gear
 when walking your dog is a good idea. The use of raincoats, coats, and sweater will help keep your dog dry and warm. And dog boots will help protect their paws.bonus winter safety tip: Dogs can lose their scent in snow and ice so be sure to keep your dog on his leash when outside and make sure his ID tags have your current info, should he become lost. - Arthritis and Joint Care Cold Temps can really aggravate arthritis, so if you have a dog with arthritis or one who has a few joint problems consult your veterinarian about the possible medications or natural solutions that may offer relief. PetAlive Muscle and Joint Support for Pet Rheumatic Conditions and Arthritis
- Indoor Dogs vs. Outdoor Dogs Depending on whether your dog spends most of his time indoors or out, each environment presents it's own winter challenges.
warning: As a rule, dogs should not be left outside for long extended periods of time. In below freezing temps, your dog could freeze to death. Indoor Dogs have a tendency to gain weight, since they are not getting as much outdoor time and exercise. You should consult your vet on adjusting your indoor dog's caloric needs. When you do let your indoor dog out, remember that they cannot tolerate the extreme temps for long. Their body temperatures have become accustom to their indoor living, so think about buying a doggy coat or sweater. Outdoor dogs are exposed to extreme cold temps and can suffer hypothermia and frostbite hint: A dog's ears, tails, and paws are highly susceptible to frostbite. Make sure your dog has adequate shelter, check his water often (make sure it doesn't freeze - consider purchasing a heated water bowl ), and provide him with extra food. Outdoor dogs need more food than usual for maintaining body heat and energy. - Frozen lakes and ponds A lake or pond that has frozen over can become life threatening to your Miniature Schnauzer. Dogs don't realize where the ice may be too thin. Once they fall in, they are susceptible to hypothermia or drowning.
Dogs are also more prone to leg injuries and ligament tears on the ice. It's best to avoid icy surfaces with your Miniature Schnauzer. - Stock Up on Supplies Many a winter outage has caught us off guard. Be prepared this year by stocking up on extra kibble, dog treats, blankets, medications, prepare a dog first aid kit, and have a friend or neighbor on call to help you with your pet in case you get stranded away from home, due to the winter weather conditions.
bonus winter safety tip: Consider purchasing these top winter safety products: - Never Leave Your Dog Alone in the Car This safety tip is not meant just for the summer time heat, but for any time. During the winter, your car will hold in the cold temps, making it like a freezer and your dog could freeze to death. Plus, left alone in a car, your dog becomes more vulnerable to dog thieves. And one last winter safety tip:
- Snuggle Up Because a dog's normal body temperature is a few degrees higher than our own, the next time you feel a chill, instead of grabbing your blanket... snuggle up with your Miniature Schnauzer. It's a great way to feel warm and loved.
I highly recommend it! 
Check Your Local Forecast Before Heading Out! Stay Safe & Warm!
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