Winter is just around the corner, and depending on where you live and the weather, that means snow! Sometimes even a lot of snow. And while many of us enjoy the white splendour, there are a few things we should always bear in mind for our four-legged friends, be they dogs or cats, to ensure their safety and well-being. In today's blog post, we have summarised the specific things you should bear in mind when romping around with your pet in the snow and ice.

 

The right gear for your dog - warm and safe

As winter approaches and the temperatures drop, it's time to think about the winter wardrobe of our four-legged friends. Not all dogs are naturally equipped with a thick coat to protect them from the cold. Smaller breeds, dogs with short coats and older dogs in particular may need a little extra protection to keep them comfortable on winter walks. 

AccessoireThe winter coat - more than just a fashion accessory

A winter coat for your dog is more than just a stylish accessory. It serves as important protection against the cold, especially if your dog spends long periods outside. It is important that the coat fits well and offers your dog sufficient freedom of movement. Modern dog coats are often lined with warming materials and are water-repellent, making them ideal for snow and wet weather.

 

Booties - protection for sensitive paws

Your dog's paws are particularly susceptible to cold and injury. Booties or dog shoes can be a great help to protect sensitive paws from freezing temperatures, sharp pieces of ice and aggressive road salt. They can take some getting used to, so it is advisable to gradually acclimatise your dog to wearing booties. Make sure that the booties fit well and do not slip.

 

Good visibility in the dark season

In winter, the days are shorter and the nights are longer, which means that many of us go for walks in the dark. This is where the importance of visibility comes into play. Reflective collars, luminous collars or LED leashes significantly increase your dog's visibility, which is especially important when walking along roads or in poorly lit parks. These products ensure that you and others, such as drivers or cyclists, can see your dog more easily and thus avoid accidents.

 

Stay safe and cosy with your cat during the cold season

Winter can be an exciting time for our furry friends, but it also presents special challenges, especially if your cat likes to be outside.

 

A safe shelter in winter

While some cats prefer to stay indoors when it gets cold outside, there are also the brave explorers who like to explore their surroundings even in winter. For these adventurers, it is crucial that they have access to a warm and protected shelter at all times.

If your cat spends time outside, consider buying or building an insulated cat hut. These huts are specially designed to retain heat and provide your cat with a cosy retreat. Make sure the hut is dry and protected from the wind, and place soft blankets inside for extra warmth and comfort.

Nothing beats the comfort of your own home. If possible, set up a cat flap so that your cat can come back inside whenever it gets too cold outside. This will give your cat the freedom to decide for herself when she wants to go on adventures outside and when it's time to return to the warmth of home.

 

Stay healthy while play in the snow

Snow means playtime! Why not build a small snow hill or hide treats in the snow? But be careful: check your dog's paws regularly for cracks or injuries and wash them after every walk to remove salt and dirt.

Snow can be just as fascinating for cats. If they go out, keep a close eye on them and make sure they don't stay out in the cold for too long. A little play in the snow can be exciting for them, but it is important that they have a warm place to warm up afterwards. That way they can recover from their winter adventures and will soon be ready for the next snow adventure.

Winter offers us and our pets many wonderful moments. With a little preparation and attention, these moments can become wonderful memories.