Tips to Protect Your Pets During Cold Weather

Between the melting snow, the sudden freezes, and the "gray slush" season, winter can be a bit  messy. Whether your dog thinks the snow is a magical playground or a personal insult from the universe, The Bond Between has got some tips to help you navigate these chilly weather months like a pro!

Potty Training and Bathroom Breaks

We’ve all been there: you open the door, and your dog looks at you like you’ve asked them to swim across the Arctic!

• Clear a small patch of grass or dirt in the yard. You can clear a space with a shovel, or you can put plastic or a rug down in an area outside close to your door and lift it up during potty breaks for an easy snow free potty area. Many dogs don’t understand that they can "go" on the white fluffy stuff. A clear "potty landing pad" can be a game-changer for house training!

Salt is for Pretzels, Not Paws

The salt and non-pet friendly de-icers used on sidewalks can be really irritating to puppy pads (and toxic if licked!).

• If you have to walk your dog on a sidewalk or other area where salt or de-icers are used, keep a towel by the door to wipe down paws as soon as you come inside. If your dog is particularly sensitive, some boots OR "Musher’s Secret" (paw wax) act like invisible boots to protect them from the sting of the salt.

Staying Warm

If you have a short-haired dog (we’re looking at you, Pitties and Boxers!), they might genuinely be shivering.

• Don’t be afraid to break out the sweaters! A well-fitted coat can be the difference between a 30-second potty break and a nice 10-minute walk. 

Overcoming the Zoomies

When it’s just too cold for a long walk or a good outdoor sniff session, the "zoomies" can get real. Great news, mental stimulation is just as tiring as a long walk!

Indoor Games: 

Try scent games like hide-and-seek with treats,snuffle mat, brain teaser puzzle toys, learning a new trick, or even a DIY obstacle course using chairs, pillows, or broomsticks.

Physical Energy Burners:

Indoor games like tug-of-war or stair sprints (for dogs who can safely use stairs) are great options.

Calming Activities:

Lick mats, stuffed Kongs, slow feeders, or a gentle grooming session can help keep a high-energy dog busy.

Senior Pets

Cold weather can make stiff joints feel a little extra creaky for our senior dogs.

• Make sure their bed is away from any areas that a draft may pass through (doors or windows). A nice extra blanket they can burrow into will make them feel like they’re staying at a 5-star resort.

  
  

A little creativity goes a long way in keeping dogs happy and balanced during the winter months!

Whether you own a pet or foster a pet, know that you are being the warm, loving and safe home for these innocent souls while the world is chilly outside.

If you would like to show up for a dog or a cat this winter, you can open up your home for our furry friends by either adopting or fostering them. If that is not a feasible option you can consider volunteering at The Bond Between or Donating to our mission to save lives and to connect people and pets.