The products used to clear the ice and snow can be a real hazard for dogs. Stay away from heavily salted areas as much as possible when walking your dog. Before your walk, clip the fur between toe pads to reduce the amount of snow that collects between toes. Apply a coat of Vaseline or Pam to foot pads just before walks or outdoor play time to protect paws. Upon returning home, wipe snow and ice off your dog’s legs and belly, it’s best to wash his feet in a small dishpan or with a wet washrag. Gently remove the ice that can form in the sensitive spaces between the toes and toe-pads. Washing off your dog’s feet will remove any salt, antifreeze or other harmful chemicals that she could ingest when licking her paws.
Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter. Leave the coat longer for more warmth. When you bathe your dog, completely dry him before taking him out for a walk.
Brush your dog vigorously and regularly, it improves skin circulation. The air is dry during the colder months, which depletes moisture from dog skin and fur.
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