Keeping Your Dog Healthy During the Winter
When the temperature drops, just like us, dogs need care to stay healthy and warm. Not all dogs are created equal when it comes to cold weather tolerance. Whether you have a dog that spends a lot of time outside or just goes out for a couple of quick walks, they need help to avoid cold-weather health hazards. Keep these basic tips in mind during the cold winter months.
Bundle Up
You can purchase a coat for your dog that is designed to fit your pup's size and breed. If your dog has a thin fur coat or is susceptible to cold, layer up. Dog jackets are pretty easy to get on and off. And, your dog will stay safer bundled up.
Protect Those Paws
There are extra hazards in the winter time to your pet's feet besides the cold. Ice can be sharp and cut your dog's feet. In cold weather states, municipalities routinely spread sodium, calcium, or potassium chloride to melt ice. These ice-melting chemicals that are spread on the road and pavement may irritate or burn pet paws. Consider pet boots if you are walking your pet in these conditions.
Stay Hydrated
We tend to think dogs are more likely to get dehydrated in the hot summer weather. This is not necessarily true. Winter brings very dry weather. And, dogs lose their body moisture through their breath, especially from panting. Since you aren't feeling the heat as much this time of year, it's easy to forget the importance of staying hydrated. Make sure your dog gets plenty of water before and after walks. There should always be a water bowl available to your pet.
Fleas and Ticks
Cold weather and snow tend to kill off most pests. However, fleas and ticks like to seek warm shelter in winter. And since your house is nice and cozy, that might be where they end up. Don't forget flea and tick inspections and preventative medications in the winter. Excessive itching on top of already dry winter skin can be very harmful to a dog.
Watch Out for Overfeeding
During cold weather, walks and exercise may be briefer. Cold temperatures may bring on lazier behavior and the need for fewer calories. Be attentive to your dog's activity level and adjust calorie intake accordingly. A high-quality, whole-food-based diet will help ensure a healthy coat and good energy for the cold winter months.
Keep Your Pet Warm
Keeping your pet warm and comfortable is important during the cold winter season. Provide your dog with a warm padded bed in an indoor location, or even placing a blanket in his or her bed can help keep your pet's joints warm and mobile. Pet clothing can also help to keep the joints warm. Put your dog in a dog sweater or jacket when it is really cold outside. Avoid leaving your pet outside for long periods of time during the winter.
Joint Supplements
People who suffer from joint pain will often tell you they feel more pain during the cold winter months. It is believed that the cause of this is the drop in barometric pressure, which can cause inflammation and tissue to swell. Cold has the same effect on muscle, a stiffening that can cause discomfort even for those who do not suffer from joint issues. The same holds true for our pets that suffer from joint pain and arthritis. When the temperature drops we see that they move slowly because they are feeling more pain.
Supporting Your Dog's Joint Health
FlexPet contains glucosamine and MSM, and it is formulated with cetyl myristoleate (CM8), a naturally-occurring compound. CM8 is the key ingredient in FlexPet and is what sets it apart from other pet supplements. FlexPet is a supplement, not a medication.
FlexPet is an all-natural way to support your dog's joint health, mobility, and comfort. FlexPet has been on the market for many years and has over 100 reviews on Amazon from verified purchasers. FlexPet is made from human-grade ingredients in the USA.
FlexPet is available in two forms – as a delicious maximum-strength soft chew treat and as a chewable tablet. Both forms are tasty treats to our pets so they won't even know they're taking a supplement.
About FlexPet: FlexPet is a joint supplement for dogs built around CM8® (cetyl myristoleate) — made in the USA and trusted since 1999. See what makes CM8® different →