We are in the coldest time of the year, the holidays are over and it is time to continue with our work or school activities. For those who were fortunate enough to enjoy a few days with their pet, mainly with a puppy, and now have to leave home, they should not forget that care must continue to avoid health and well-being problems.
Just as we require care during the winter, pets also need it. They must be protected from low temperatures as they can get sick with bronchitis, tracheobronchitis or pneumonia. If the humidity is high, problems of dermatomycosis (fungal infection that damages the skin) or increase blood pressure can occur, so more care should be taken with animals suffering from heart disease.
Here are some recommendations for your care:
1) Comfort and warmth. Offer your puppy a warm, comfortable place where he can sleep or nap during the day. Cold nights are a high risk if you sleep outdoors and do not have a place to protect yourself. A warm blanket will help.
2) Hygiene. If you decide to bathe him this season, do it indoors or take him to his groomer. This will avoid exposing him to sudden changes in temperature and he will not get sick in the respiratory tract.
3) Brushed. During this time, the puppies shed their hair and they lose more than normal because it prepares to be more abundant during the cold. We recommend brushing it at least three times a week, this way you will allow the process to receive the new hair to be faster and it can look beautiful.
4) Clothes. During the winter the clothes are not too much, it will help protect you from the cold. A coat, sweater or cape that does not bother you and that allows you to be comfortable may be the option. Make sure you don’t damage her hair. In places where the cold is excessive or there is snow, it is important to take care of their legs to avoid injuries to their bearings. If necessary, put some boots on it. Don’t forget to change them if they get wet and remove them regularly to thoroughly brush the dog.
5) Food. A diet according to your age and condition will provide you with the necessary calories to be healthy and nourished. In winter, your dog’s body works faster to generate heat, hence the importance of providing adequate food throughout the year.
6) Health. It is important that your puppy has an updated vaccination and deworming record so that in winter his immune system is at its best. In winter, seasonal diseases such as respiratory problems or laryngitis, among others, may occur more frequently. Avoid getting sick, go to the vet to guide you on their health and general care.
7) Take care of your “old man”. If your little friend is already a senile puppy, we recommend you to be more careful with him. Generally, dogs at this stage of their lives have problems with their joints that limit their mobility. The cold can cause your quality of life to be affected and have less activity. Your veterinary doctor will give you the best recommendations so that this time is more bearable and you can enjoy it.
Remember to adapt these tips for your type of dog, some may be more susceptible to cold such as small ones, short hair, puppies or elderly. We are sure that this guide will help you to continue taking care of it in the low temperatures that will continue for a few weeks.