If you’re a first-time dog owner, you may not know that your dog is as much at risk of developing winter ailments as you are. Dogs can be susceptible to illnesses that range from frostbite developed while sleeping in the cold to canine flu and even arthritis.
Preventative care for your dog means it’s essential to know which diseases it’s most at risk of developing, what their symptoms are, and how to best prevent and care for them. This post takes a look at a few of the more common ailments and their symptoms you should keep an eye out for this winter.
Kennel Cough
Kennel cough is one of the top ailments your dog can develop in the winter. This respiratory infection can easily spread between dogs when they are held up in close quarters in the winter. One of the top ways to prevent this disease is to compare pet insurance options and choose the option that covers yearly vaccinations.
Your dog should be vaccinated against kennel cough at six weeks old and then get a yearly booster. The most common symptoms of kennel cough include a runny nose and eyes, which may be accompanied by a honking cough. You can treat kennel cough at home by protecting the dog from other animals and using a humidifier near its bed. Speak to your vet to prescribe an antibiotic to fight inflammation.
Hypothermia
A common mistake pet owners make is to assume that a dog can only develop hypothermia if it’s exposed to severe cold temperatures. Your dog can easily develop hypothermia by being exposed to cold temperatures or wet conditions for prolonged periods. This can easily happen to dogs who live outside or have inadequate shelters. Leaking kennels and blankets that get wet or lack adequate heating are all contributors to developing hypothermia.
Exposure to any of these conditions causes your dog’s temperature to drop dangerously low, and it then develops hypothermia. Shivering, cold ears and paws, slow movements, pale gums, and muscle stiffness are the common symptoms to look out for. While drowsiness is also a symptom, it’s essential to not confuse this with your dog’s normal sleeping patterns, which may change in the winter.
If you suspect that your dog has hypothermia place a blanket over them so that they can gradually warm up. Take them to the vet, as they may require emergency care to avoid organ damage. Avoid this altogether by ensuring that your dog has a warm, dry bed that’s off the ground. Be sure to add extra blankets, booties, and a jersey to keep them warm.
Flu and Pneumonia
Many people aren’t aware that dogs can and do catch the flu just like their human owners. Just as with the human strain, canine flu is highly contagious and can result in symptoms that include labored breathing, fever, coughing, and body aches. The kennel cough vaccination, good hygiene, clean bedding, and separation from sick animals are all top preventive measures against canine flu.
Arthritis
Older dogs and certain dog breeds are also susceptible to arthritis in their joints as they age. Cold aggravates these symptoms and may make it harder for your pet to walk. Typical symptoms include increased muscle stiffness and reluctance to move.
Your dog will also show a decrease in their usual physical activity, such as climbing stairs or running to the window when they hear the mailman. To ease the uncomfortable effects of arthritis, provide your dog with a warm, cozy spot to lie, which has warm blankets to lie on and under. Speak to your vet about adding a joint-friendly supplement to their usual eating plan.
Your vet might also provide your dog with mild pain tablets to ease the pain on very cold days. Encourage your pet to do regular but gentle exercise to maintain mobility. Keep them moving to prevent additional stress on their other joints. Older dogs may benefit from heated beds. In these instances, you may need to invest in a bed that is not too high off the floor so that your dog doesn’t struggle to get on and off of it.
Final Thoughts
Not all dogs will get sick during the winter. You can reduce your dog’s risk factors by ensuring that their vaccinations and boosters are up to date. Ensure that they are additional vitamin supplements if they have compromised immune systems or are recovering from an illness.
Dogs should also have a warm, dry bed that’s slightly off the ground to reduce exposure to damp ground conditions. Teach them to be comfortable wearing booties and jerseys if they have arthritis or if they live in an extremely cold climate. Your vet will also be able to make specific recommendations based on your dog’s unique needs.