When It's Cold, Protect Your Dog From The Weather! The Right Thing to Do!

This is very important to understand, dogs are not able to sustain themselves in temperatures that are intolerable for humans over even short periods of time without protection from the wind and the cold.

Preferably in a building with thick rugs to lay and sleep on is usually enough.

JoAnn DeCollibus Powell DdSarHip Cookeville 

IT IS COLD OUTSIDE!! HOW ARE YOUR DOGS THIS AM? Many dogs will die of Hypothermia this winter across the country. As we get into single digits this weekend, know the signs to help keep yours safe!

Despite that thick, heavy coat of fur, dogs can still feel chilly and even experience frostbite and hypothermia. So how cold is too cold for your dog? While exact temperatures may vary from breed to breed, most pups will start to feel a little chilly at temperatures below 45°F. And once temps go below 32°F, it’s a good idea to limit the time your dog spends outdoors and take extra precautions to keep them warm. In other words: if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your dog.
Note that puppies, smaller dogs, and breeds with short or thin coats are more susceptible to the cold than say, a full-grown Husky or Newfoundland. You should take extra precautions to keep vulnerable pups warm.

WARNING SIGNS THAT YOUR DOG IS TOO COLD
How can you tell if your dog is getting cold? Here are some common warning signs that signal you should get your pup to a warmer place:�
- Shaking, shivering, or trembling
- Slowing down or stopping while on a walk
- Hunched posture with their tail tucked between their legs
- Whining or barking, especially more than normal if they regularly bark
- Lifting their paws off the ground
- Seeking out shelter
- Ears and nose feel very cold to the touch

If it’s cold outside and you start to notice any of these symptoms or behavior, try to move your dog to a warmer place as soon as possible and see if these signs improve.
Make sure they’re getting plenty of calories.

Your pet uses more energy in order to keep their body temperature up while outside in the elements. Keeping your pet well-fed on protein-rich foods will give them more calories to burn, which in return helps them keep warm when outside. It’s also very important to make sure that your pet stays properly hydrated. Make sure they’re drinking plenty of water and check their water sources often to see if they are frozen over. This is a contributing factor to their body temperature and over all health.
Please do all you can to keep your dogs and other animals safe. Thank you!