Season-specific advice to keep your pet safe and healthy throughout the year.
Limit outdoors below 20F. Sweaters for short coats. Check paws for ice/salt/frostbite. Pet-safe ice melt. Wipe paws after walks. Never leave out in freezing weather.
Toxic plants (poinsettias, lilies, mistletoe). Secure Christmas trees. Avoid tinsel/ornament hooks. Cover electrical cords. Quiet space from gatherings. Never gift pets unprepared.
Cold worsens arthritis. Heated orthopedic beds. Healthy weight. Joint supplements (glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3s). Low-impact exercise. Vet pain management.
Ice/snow/salt damage paws. Paw balm before walks. Booties for prolonged outdoor. Check between toes for ice balls. Rinse and dry after walks. Trim fur between pads.
Puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, trick training. Indoor obstacle courses. Practice new commands. Frozen Kongs and snuffle mats for mental stimulation.
Active outdoor dogs need 10-20% more calories. Less active indoor dogs may need fewer. Always fresh unfrozen water. Warm food slightly to encourage eating.