Winterizing Your Pet’s Routine

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, it’s important to make a few adjustments to keep your pet comfortable, healthy, and safe during the winter months. Here are some essential tips on how to winterize your pet’s routine, ensuring they stay cozy, active, and well-cared for this season.

1. Keep Them Warm with Proper Gear

Pets, especially short-haired breeds, can feel the chill just like we do. Invest in a well-fitting coat or sweater to keep them warm on walks, particularly for smaller dogs or those with thin fur. Don’t forget about their paws; consider booties or paw wax to protect their feet from ice, salt, and cold sidewalks. After walks, always check their paws for any signs of irritation or ice buildup.

2. Maintain Their Exercise Routine

The cold weather can make it tempting to skip daily walks, but regular exercise is crucial to keep your pet healthy and maintain their energy levels. Try to keep walks short during frigid temperatures or consider indoor play sessions if outdoor time is limited. Activities like interactive toys, indoor fetch, or even agility exercises are great ways to keep them active indoors.

3. Adjust Their Diet as Needed

Pets may need extra calories in colder weather, particularly if they spend a lot of time outdoors. However, if your pet’s activity level decreases in winter, be mindful not to overfeed them. Adjust their diet accordingly, and consult your vet if you’re unsure about how many calories your pet needs as their winter activity level changes.

4. Monitor Their Skin and Coat Health

Winter air can be drying for your pet’s skin and coat, leading to itchiness and discomfort. Increase brushing frequency to help distribute natural oils, keeping their coat healthy and skin moisturized. Avoid frequent baths, as they can strip the coat of essential oils. For additional skin support, consider using a humidifier in your home and talk to your vet about skin-safe supplements if needed.

5. Provide a Cozy Indoor Space

As temperatures drop, make sure your pet has a warm, draft-free spot indoors where they can retreat to relax. For pets that usually sleep on the floor, provide them with a plush bed or blanket to add extra warmth and insulation. Avoid placing their bed near cold drafts or on uncarpeted floors, as it can make a significant difference in their comfort.

6. Hydration is Key

Pets can become dehydrated in winter just as easily as in summer, especially with the drying effects of indoor heating. Make sure fresh water is always available, and check outdoor water bowls for ice if your pet spends time outside. You can also add a little wet food to their diet to boost hydration.

7. Be Cautious with Antifreeze and Salt

Winter weather often brings additional hazards like antifreeze and sidewalk salt. Antifreeze is toxic to pets, so ensure they don’t have access to garages or areas where it might be present. Wipe down their paws and stomach after walks to remove any potentially harmful chemicals or salt. Pet-safe salt options are also available and are a safer choice if you salt your own property.

8. Plan for Holiday Travel and Boarding Early

If you’re traveling for the holidays and need to board your pet, book early, as boarding facilities fill up fast during the winter season. At The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel, we’re dedicated to making your pet’s stay comfortable, cozy, and fun. Boarding allows you to focus on your travel plans, knowing your pet is safe, warm, and in the best care possible.

Stay Prepared and Enjoy the Season

Preparing your pet for winter is an important part of responsible pet ownership. By making small adjustments to their routine, you can keep them comfortable, active, and happy throughout the colder months. If you need more tips or have questions about caring for your pet in winter, feel free to contact us at The Ark Pet Spa & Hotel. We’re always here to help you and your furry family members!

Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the cozy season with your beloved pets!