In case of insufficiently thoughtful organization, a winter walk can lead to a number of problems:

• hypothermia, frostbite of the paws;

• irritation of the paw skin, poisoning by anti-icing agents;

• injuries, accidents.

To minimize risks, you need to have special equipment - clothing, footwear, protective equipment, carefully plan the walking route, and organize it taking into account the individual characteristics of the dog and weather conditions. Is hypothermia a threat to the dog?

Most dogs are adapted to low temperatures much better than humans, as their bodies are covered with fur. But this does not mean that a dog cannot catch a cold. Dogs can get angina, bronchitis, pneumonia. Also, cold weather is harmful to the joints and can cause inflammation - arthritis.

Best protected from hypothermia are representatives of long-haired breeds and owners of medium-haired coats with dense undercoat. Moreover, the maximum dense undercoat grows by winter in dogs that live on the street, in an aviary or a kennel. Living in a heated room reduces its density, but during a standard duration of an active winter walk, such a dog is still not threatened by hypothermia. Much more vulnerable are short-haired dogs and practically hairless representatives of exotic breeds, such as the Chinese Crested. If a dog is very sensitive to cold, in severe frost, windy weather, it is better to limit yourself to a hygienic walk and return home as soon as the dog has relieved itself.

To avoid hypothermia of the pet, you should follow a number of rules:

• if the own coat with undercoat does not provide reliable protection from frost and wind, the dog should be walked in warm clothing, shoes;

• if the walk falls during a snowfall or there is a lot of snow on the ground, owners of long hair need light clothing with water-repellent impregnation. And it is better not to allow the pet to roll in the snow, wet fur sharply increases the risk of hypothermia;

special creams, wax protect the paws from frostbite well, help retain heat, the effect is enough for the duration of the walk. Such means can replace shoes if the dog constantly loses it or deliberately takes it off;
active movement is the best protection against hypothermia. If a dog is not very active, due to temperament or health problems, it is impossible to make it run fast, it is better to shorten the time of the walk in the frost;
a slight frost in combination with a strong wind is much more dangerous than a lower temperature in calm weather. Therefore, for winter walks, you should choose, if possible, well-protected from the wind areas among trees;
you cannot allow the pet to eat snow - this can lead to angina, and if the snow is contaminated with gasoline, antifreeze, various chemicals, then to intoxication. Another important rule is to carefully monitor the behavior and well-being of the four-legged companion. If the dog tucks its paws, whines plaintively, shows no enthusiasm, it means it's time to go home. However, it should be borne in mind that a dog may demonstrate a reluctance to walk, as this desire is absent in the owner. Pets are very sensitive to the mood of their owner. If a person is going for a walk with obvious reluctance, feels annoyance, irritation, anger towards the dog, then for him the walk begins to be associated with negative experiences.

Sometimes the owner turns out to be more enduring than the pet and gets so carried away with the walk that he misses the first alarming signals. More obvious signs of hypothermia in a dog are trembling of the limbs, weakness, apathy, coughing, sneezing. In such a situation, you need to urgently go home, if the pet's dimensions allow, it is better to take it in your arms. At home, wash the paws, dry the fur, wrap the dog in a warm blanket, quilt, owners' jacket, surround it with heaters, bottles of water, the temperature of which should not exceed 40°, give warm drinks, broth. It is also worth measuring the temperature, if it has dropped to 35-36°, this indicates mild hypothermia, which can be coped with without the help of a specialist.

Protecting Dogs from Anti-Icing Agents

In winter, cities use reagents to melt snow and prevent slippery ice. While this reduces fall risks, it can harm dog paw pads, which are more sensitive than rubber or shoe materials. Reagents cause irritation, burns, and can be painful if paw pads have microcracks. To avoid contact with reagents:

- Opt for areas without reagents if possible, though this can be challenging in urban settings.
- Carry small dogs through treated areas.
- Quickly cross recently treated areas before paws get wet to prevent reagent adherence.
- Clean paws thoroughly after walking and avoid letting the dog lick them.

While wax and protective agents offer some protection, reagents quickly degrade their effectiveness. Shoes provide better protection, but ensuring they stay on dogs' paws can be difficult due to paw structure. Experts recommend shoes for walks along treated paths and removing them for clean snow play. Leaving fur between the toes can limit reagent contact, but it may lead to icicle buildup. After walks, always wash and dry paws thoroughly, and consider applying a veterinary paw cream for healing.

Avoiding Winter Walk Accidents

To prevent slips and injuries on icy surfaces, both the dog and the owner need suitable footwear. It's crucial to steer clear of risky areas and move cautiously. Using a shorter leash, especially for energetic dogs, helps prevent accidents where the pet reaches safety before the owner. In unfamiliar places, prevent the dog from rushing into snowdrifts, as hidden hazards lurk beneath. Exercise caution near bodies of water, ensuring thin ice is avoided. Dressing appropriately for the weather and considering the dog's breed, age, and health are vital for a safe outing. Proper nutrition and training also reduce risks. Embrace walks as enjoyable and beneficial for both pet and owner's health