With low visibility and darker nights, keeping dogs safe can feel daunting. Sleet, frost and snow are due to hit the UK and amber warnings have been issued across the country.
To help dog owners when exercising their dogs this winter, dog experts Kennel Store has provided an expert comment on how Brits can walk their dogs safely, and how to keep your dogs active, as temperatures are expected to drop as low as -10C.
“Temperature dropping means taking extra care of your pup to ensure they’re able to stay safe, whilst still enjoying the winter weather. If your dog doesn’t handle the cold very well, it can leave you wondering if you can take your dog out in the snow.
Here are some tips to help keep your dog safe on winter walks:
Check the temperature before walking
Depending on your dog’s breed, it may be too cold for your dog to go out for a walk. Before heading out, check the temperature and if you’re unsure, refer to the chart below which breaks down the risk level depending on your dogs weight, along with other factors that could put your dog at risk.
Keep your dog on the lead if it’s snowing
Snow can cause poor visibility, and if your dog is off lead it could lead to your dog getting lost. If the snowfall is particularly heavy, there may be deep patches or holes and unsafe areas. Keep your dog on lead to prevent them from falling and potentially injuring themselves.
Ensure your dog is wearing a collar with an ID tag, and they are microchipped
It’s important that the microchipping database is up to date with your address and current contact information.
Don’t allow your dog to walk on frozen ponds and lakes
Ice can be deceiving and extremely dangerous. If your dog is on a frozen pond, it may not be strong enough to hold their weight and they could fall through. Should this be the case, encourage them to swim back to you and call emergency services as soon as possible.
Check your dogs collars and leads
Damp conditions and wet weather can cause metal to rust, so be sure to check your dogs lead clips and harnesses.
Wipe their paws
Be sure to wipe your dog’s paws when you come in, to remove salt and grit. This prevents their paw pads getting sore and stops your dog ingesting salt and ice-melting chemicals.
Make sure your dog is visible
With less sunlight, consider purchasing a LED collar or lead for your dog to ensure that you and your dog are visible to drivers. Alternatively, walking earlier in the day means you will be more visible to oncoming vehicles and will likely be warmer.
