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Tails from a Dog Trainer – Winter is coming

22 Oct, 2019

As a dog owner, you’re no doubt used to being out in all weather. Whilst last year’s heatwave gave us a challenge not faced for many years (how to cope with 60 days of continuous heat) winter is also worth preparing for. Dark nights and mornings are coming soon; here are some great items to consider/tips for keeping your dog safe and warm over the months ahead.

  • High visibility coats, leads and collars really help drivers to see dogs walking at the side of a road. A flashing collar can also be invaluable if you have a dog prone to roaming and you’re planning walks in parks or low-lit areas.
  • Equafeeces/Dog Onesies are a great addition to your dog’s wardrobe and can greatly decrease the amount of mud & water making contact with your dog during a walk. They add warm for small dogs and prevent the need for constant baths for big, bouncy dogs. Drying coats are also available to take the hassle out of towel drying your dog after a walk.
  • If you’re not keen on cutting your dog’s coat short in the winter it may be worth asking your groomer to trim the hair around their paws. Snowballs and mud can build up between pads and cause discomfort. Paws should always be washed when returning from walks around gritted areas to avoid salt/anti freeze or chemicals being ingested.
  • Head torches can be useful to light the way of you like to jog with your dog early morning/in the evening. Normal torches also come in useful when your services are required for poop scooping – nobody wants to risk dropping your phone at that moment – even if it was providing your light!
  • Consider adding a foil blanket to your dog first aid kit in the winter months. Foil blankets can be used to maintain your dog’s body temperature if you need to administer first aid at the scene of an accident.
  • Grip gloves are useful if your dog pulls on the lead. Whilst normal gloves will keep you walm, they can make holding a lead much more difficult without the grip of your skin.  

Louise Burton IMDT
Hilton Dogs

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