6 Winter Safety Tips Every Dog Owner Should Know

❄️ Ice storms don’t care if your dog needs to pee.

But you do...and your dog does.... Here are a few winter safety tips for dogs, to keep them (and you!) safe while dealing with the weather.

1. Keep Walks Short, Sweet, and Supervised

Winter weather can be dangerous if you aren't careful.  Ice can be dangerous to walk on, the cold cuts right through you.  Hopefully you already have a phrase that you use ("go potty!") that let's your dog know this is a short walk. 

Keep the walks short, but also keep in mind that your dog needs activity.  Use a snuffle mat, play "indoor ball" (my dog's favorite game), give plenty of approved chew toys, and be patient if your dog seems restless. 

2. Always Use a Leash—Yes, Even in Your Yard

Snow covers familiar scents. Dogs can get disoriented—even in their own neighborhood. A secure harness and leash combo helps you stay in control when conditions are slick.

Try This: The Freedom No-Pull Harness offers comfort and control and if you choose the "Training Leash" option, you have a nice short leash so your dog can't get out in front of you and pull you over the ice.

3. Gear Up for Control and Visibility

If your dog wears a coat, we recommend that you put the harness over the coat instead of under the coat.  Even if the coat has a hole so that you can connect a leash, we've seen the leash clip open from the edge of the coat hitting it.  Over the coat is safer! 

• Use a non-retractable leash to avoid tangles.  The shorter the leash, the less "runway" your dog has to take off and pull you with them.

• Choose reflective gear for low-light visibility.  If it is snowing, then it is winter, which means short days.  Reflective gear will help you remain visible for those crazy people driving on slick roads. 

4. Protect Those Precious Paws

Lay down a tarp before the storm or shovel a potty patch near your door. Use pet-safe ice melt to avoid paw irritation.  Keep in mind that traditional ice melt (salt) can be toxic if your dog licks their paws after a walk.

Other safety measures to consider:

• Apply paw wax before walks.  This can help protect paws from drying out from the ice melt on the sidewalks or roads.

• Wipe or rinse paws after.  Salt used to melt ice can be toxic to animals!  Make sure you rinse paws, even if you didn't see anything used.

• Booties add bonus protection—if your dog’s cool with it.  We recommend that you try the booties on BEFORE you hit the ice!  If there is a bad reaction from your dog, at least you aren't standing in an ice patch when it happens!

5. Plan for Power Outages

Stock up on blankets, create a cozy zone.  Avoid heaters with open flames or block them off if you think your dog might go near them.  

If you have a well, make sure you have drinkable water, not only for you and your family, but for your dog.  

6. Keep ID and Emergency Gear Ready

Update collars, tags, and microchip info. Store leashes, carriers, and gear where you can grab them fast if you need to leave.  Pack a "go bag" with plenty of food and all of the supplies you might need for a few days.

In addition, if you are at the store buying Bread and Milk (haha only in the south?) make sure you have what you need for your animals - food, treats, litter if you have a cat?

Bottom Line?

If you  have any additional Winter Safety Tips for your dog that has proven successful, reach out and let us know!