Winter Pet Safety

While pet safety is important any time of year, the winter weather can have a strong impact on your dog when he or she is out and about. These tips will help you determine the best ways to protect your pet this year.

Fancy Feet

When you head outside in the winter, make sure that your dog’s feet are protected from the elements. In addition to cleaning the pads of their feet when they come inside on rainy days, you can layer protective “musher’s” wax on their pads for an extra layer of protection from the ground. This is a great way to combat the cold weather.

If you want more protection, opt for Ruffwear’s Summit Trex shoes. These weather-resistant booties offer traction while remaining weatherproof and combating abrasive surfaces like rocky paths or pavement.

Staying Warm and Dry

Because your dog can’t tell you when they’re cold, be sure to look for signs—and bundle up when you’re heading out in winter weather. While sweaters are ideal for home, you’ll need something waterproof when you take to the streets. Consider Ruffwear’s Cloud Chaser jacket, with breathable insulation to keep your pup warm while he or she braves the elements around town or on your next winter hike.

But Not Too Dry

While you want to keep your pet dry, the change in temperatures indoors and outdoor can cause dry, flaky skin. As such, you’ll want to try to give your dog fewer baths in the wintertime to preserve the skin’s moisture and keep the oils intact. If you find your dog’s skin is still too dry, opt for DERMagic to add a little moisture and combat the effects of the winter weather.

Stay Visible

With the sun rising later and setting much earlier in the wintertime, you’re sure to be wandering around outside in the dark with your pet. As is true any time of year, you’ll want to make sure your dog is visible to passing cars, other dog owners, and anyone walking by. There are a variety of dog safety lights on the market, but the waterproof Beacon light by Ruffwear is great for rainy winter days and features a Quick Clip for easy attachment.

Wintertime Snow Play

If you decide to head out to the snow, there are a few things to remember, due to the colder temperatures and ice on the ground. Musher’s wax can also come in useful, offering protection from the cold and ice as well as the chemicals or salt put on the ground to melt the snow. Or, swap the Ruffwear Summit Trex for the specially designed Polar Trex, ideal for frozen surfaces.

As far as keeping warm in the snow, the newly insulated Vert Jacket by Ruffwear is a great option, protecting against not only the cold but the wet too. Keeping your pet and the loft nice and dry on any cold and wet adventure. Or, instead, choose the brand’s Powder Hound jacket for the same insulation with more range of movement if your dog will be running or jumping in the snow.