Winter is here, and the temperatures are dropping steadily. This can be a great time of year for spending time with your canine friend outdoors. If your pooch is in his senior years, you’ll need to take a little extra care with him. An Ellicott City, MD vet offers some advice on this below.

Temperatures

Your furry friend may get chilly. As it gets colder, pups with thin fur will need sweaters or jackets on cold days. You’ll also want to make sure that your pooch has a comfy bed to curl up in on those cold nights. Keep in mind that weather can fluctuate drastically at this time of year: it may be cooler in the morning, warm up during the day, and then get quite cold at night. Adjust accordingly.

Diet

It’s a good idea to revisit your dog’s diet occasionally. Fido may need bigger portions when it’s cold, particularly if he is a working dog, senior, or spends a lot of time outdoors. Your furry buddy may also benefit from certain supplements. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Darkness

You’ll likely be walking Fido after dark more often. It’s a good idea to bring a flashlight with you, or get a leash with one built into the collar. Take extra care if your canine bff has vision problems.

Exercise

As it gets cooler, Fido will probably want to spend more time catching Z’s than catching Frisbees. Your furry pal does need regular exercise to stay healthy. Make sure he’s getting enough activity. For some dogs, that may simply mean a walk around the block. Of course, every dog is different, so you’ll need to find out what is right for your canine buddy. Ask your vet for recommendations.

Seasonal Dangers

The cold weather brings some very specific threats to our canine companions. Plants are one concern. Many popular holiday plants, such as holly, ivy, and mistletoe, are toxic to dogs. Many holiday foods and decorations are also unsafe. You can find more information on the ASPCA site here. Last but not least, don’t let Fido come into contact with flames from candles, fireplaces, or potpourri burners. Ask your vet for more information on keeping your pooch safe through the holidays.

Please contact us with any questions about your dog’s health or care. As your local Ellicott City, MD animal clinic, we’re here to help!