In this wicked cold, Stone Mountain Marketing Coordinator Kiana Bohnsack has some tips for keeping dogs safe when they are outside.
“It’s best to keep the outdoor time brief,” Bohnsack said. “Mainly just quick potty breaks. Make sure you’re putting a coat on your dog. Watch for signs of shivering or lifting of the paws. Make sure you’re drying them off as soon as you get inside and just never leave your dogs unattended in these freezing temperatures.”
Bohnsack says that some dogs are more suited to being out in the elements than others.
“The double-coated dogs are definitely more suited for the weather,” Bohnsack said. “Short-haired dogs are going to be the ones that want to have a coat on them.”
Road salt is an enemy
Courtney Vruno also works at Stone Mountain and says that road and sidewalk salt are not a dog’s best friend.
“It can absolutely be an enemy,” Vruno said. “It can irritate paw pads, cause cracking and can even be toxic if dogs lick them. We recommend rinsing and wiping the paws after let outs, putting on bootys, or a paw butter, or even using a safe paw ice melter to help reduce that risk.”
According to Vruno there are certain signs that indicate an animal has been out in the cold too long.
“Lifting the paw pads,” Vruno said. “Shivering. Some dogs tend to sit in the cold and they just won’t move. Those are just clear signs it’s time for me to go inside.”
Of course, the Arctic cold does mean more indoor time for the pack of energetic dogs staying at Stone Mountain.
“During the winter time it’s really important to do indoor activities,” Bohnsack said. “We actually offer an indoor dog park event here which gives dogs a chance to socialize and burn some energy.”
Vruno points out that even in the cold weather it’s crucial to keep your pet hydrated.
