Bogus Basin and Brundage have gotten some great snow so far this year. As for the Treasure Valley, we've seen a few fluffy inches, but alas, it is mostly gone now. Thankfully more snow is forecasted to come. Kids love it, pets love it, and most parents don't, mainly because it means shoveling and driving on less than ideal roads. However you feel about it, here are a few extra safety precautions for your pets.
Before Heading Outside
While putting on your gloves and coats to head out and enjoy the fluffy white stuff, remember that some pups may also need some extra bundling to stay warm. Think of Pugs, Chihuahuas, Boston Terriers, Toy Poodles, and Dachshunds. These canines have short hair and are very low to the ground. It's wise for these smaller breeds to put on a sweater and/or booties to help keep them warm during extended time outside.
While Playing Outside
How long your pet can play outside with you is going to depend on a few factors. One, how deep the snow is. If you bring your Shih Tzu outside and the snow is deeper than your Shih Tzu is tall, it's going to be better to limit outside playtime to a few fun-filled minutes. However, if you one of the lucky dog parents to a Husky, Malamute, or a Bernese Mountain Dog, playtime can last for the next few hours.
Second, take into account how wet it is outside. Your cuddly canine is going to be much more susceptible to the cold temperatures if the snow is really wet or if it is raining outside.
Finally, what is the current temperature outside? If it's 32-40 degrees, breeds with thick or double coats are safe to play outside while you are out. If you have a short-haired canine, best to wrap them up in sweaters and booties to play in the snow for anything longer than 30 minutes.
Times Up
Shivering and runny noses are a good indication that your pup is ready to head back into the house to get toasty warm.
Additionally, keep an eye on your dogs so they don't wander off or get lost. Other than the Fourth of July celebrations, winter months see the highest rate of lost dogs. Snow dampens a dog's sense of smell, which can make it harder for them to find their way back home.
We've created a helpful chart to gauge how much time your dog can spend outside in certain temperatures.
Coming Back Inside
When you’re done frolicking in the snow and it's time to come back in, you're going to want to have a towel and warm washcloth at the ready. First, wash off your pup's paws to remove any salt melt they may have picked up. You don't want them to ingest that salt as it can make them very ill. If your family uses salt to melt the snow, make sure you use the pet-friendly labeled salt.
Next, towel dry your dog's paws and coat off to help him warm-up. It will also be best for your furniture and carpets when your canine is released into the house and will be constantly shaking out his coat.
Kitten Outside Play
If you currently have an outdoor cat, they'll be fine as long as they have a warmer, dry place to sleep at night, especially if their place is next to your house. Now, if your cat is primarily an indoor cat, it’s best to keep them inside if temperatures fall below freezing.
These tips will help keep you and your pets having fun during these cooler and snowier months.
