Our Picks: Winter Care Essentials for Dogs and Cats
As the winter weather arrives, it’s not just humans who require care and warmth - our beloved furry friends need extra love too! The chilly months bring along a unique set of challenges for our pets, from the biting cold to the salty roads. In this blog, we want to provide some holiday shopping finds for our little loved ones, to keep them feeling healthy, warm, and cared for! See our tips on key seasonal concerns for cats and dogs in winter, and our recommended products to help.
Dehydration
As the winter chill sets in, our pets are prone to dehydration as they might be less inclined to drink water. Additionally, indoor heating systems can dry out the air, leading to increased water loss and pet dehydration. Dehydration in pets can lead to a variety of issues, one being temperature regulation - a necessity during the winter months.
Entice your pet to stay hydrated with this automated and filtered water fountain. Providing trickling water that pets love with a six-level filtration system, your pet can enjoy a soothing sipping experience while building up hydration to maintain digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation! An interactive, stimulating fountain with great-tasting filtered water is one way to encourage your cat or dog to drink more water in the winter months.
Joint and Muscle Pain
Healthybud Beef Joint Booster for Dogs
Why is my dog so stiff and sore in the winter? Cold weather may reduce blood circulation, causing our pets to encounter diminished warmth in their muscles and joints. Additionally, frigid temperatures can intensify joint and muscle stiffness by inducing tightening, resulting in discomfort and compromised mobility in dogs of all ages. This effect is particularly pronounced in our elderly pets and those with arthritis, as cold conditions can exacerbate arthritis symptoms, contributing to swelling and increased pain in these vulnerable dogs and cats.
Support their joint health and mobility with these nutritious soft chews! Formulated with the oversight of veterinarians and animal nutritionists, the Beef Joint Booster uses all-natural ingredients, such as Green Lipped Mussel and Turmeric to improve hip & joint health and reduce inflammation. With no artificial additives, fillers, or animal by-products, these tasty treats are a necessity.
Chemical Exposure & Deicing Agents
While humans appreciate the convenience of ice-melting chemicals and antifreeze to alleviate the burdens of shoveling and preventing slips during the winter, it’s imperative to recognize the severe threat that these substances pose to our beloved pets. One example is ethylene glycol, a common ingredient in antifreeze products which is highly dangerous - even small amounts can prove lethal to our furry companions.
To safeguard your dogs from ingestion of these toxic chemicals, it’s essential to keep them outfitted with protective paw covers. Crafted with three layers of high-performance technical materials, their paws are sure to be protected from harmful substances. Moreover, the inclusion of a rubber anti-skid sole and high-stretch rib fabric grants our pups unrestricted mobility, allowing for carefree play in the snow!
If your pet won’t wear booties, or chemical exposure isn’t likely in your area, you can still protect and heal your pet’s paws from the negative effects of rock salt, snow, and other irritating surfaces. In harsh weather, we recommend a protective and healing paw balm like our Nova Scotia Fisherman Pet Balm, great for protecting dogs’ & outdoor cats’ paws in the winter, while also helping soothe hot spots, dry skin, and more.
Skin dryness and irritation
Cold weather air tends to be significantly dryer, leading to dry skin, irritation, and itchiness in pets. This is further exacerbated by heating systems in indoor environments, which reduce moisture levels in the air. These issues are particularly acute in pets with short or thin coats, or with pre-existing skin conditions.
This natural, unrefined salmon oil for cats and dogs is sourced from Norwegian GMO-free, antibiotic-free salmon off-cuts, and is excellent for overall nutrition. Plentiful in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, Brilliant Salmon Oil supports immune system strength, cardiovascular function, and skin and coat health. As an added benefit, this delicious fish oil supplement can promote a healthy appetite, ensuring your pet is eating substantially!
Winter Pet Clothing
To further protect dogs with short or thin hair, a winter coat is a great call. The Doggie-Q Puffy Jacket is not only super stylish but also comfortable and protective, keeping your pet cozy despite the chilly winter elements. It gives your pet the warmth we love from puffers, with a spacious hood for pups with chilly ears.
Shop our PetsEssentials winter pet advice at petsessentials.ca and stay tuned for more tips on our blog this season!
