Winter Dog Care: The increasing cold in Satna has not only troubled humans, but its direct impact is visible on pet dogs as well. Veterinarian Dr. Brihaspati Bharti said that cold can cause many serious diseases for dogs. In such an environment, conditions like paralysis, distemper, parvo and hypothermia increase. In the city, people keep more exotic breeds like Doberman, Rottweiler and German Shepherd, on which the effect of cold is even stronger. Therefore, even a little carelessness towards their diet, cleanliness and routine in winter can make them ill.
Increasing threat to exotic breeds in winter
Breeds like Doberman, Rottweiler and German Shepherd have their calving period every 6 months and during this time they are more likely to fall ill. Especially in cold, the risk of parvo virus and distemper increases rapidly. Short-haired dogs are easily affected by cold air and low temperatures, which can lead to strain on nerves and muscles, pain in joints, and even increased risk of paralysis if left for a long time.
Increased risk of hypothermia and skin infection
In winter, falling body temperature of dogs i.e. hypothermia becomes the biggest danger. Cold tiles, morning humidity and cold wind make them fall ill quickly. In such a situation, Dr. Bharti advises not to allow dogs to walk excessively on the cold tiles of the floor. Make sure to spread thick mats or blankets at their sleeping and walking areas. He warned that bathing too much in winter is harmful for dogs because they have very few sweat glands. This increases the risk of skin infection. In this season, bathing once a month is sufficient, although daily grooming, combing and body cleaning with cloth is considered better.
Right time and precautions for walking in winter
Taking dogs for a walk on chilly mornings can have an adverse effect on their health. Many times, due to cold air hitting their neck and chest directly, they start suffering from continuous coughing and breathing problems. Therefore, avoid taking walks early in the morning and late at night, and take them out only when there is light sunshine or the temperature is slightly normal. Also, to keep dogs warm, wearing ready-made doggy warm clothes available in the market or old warm homemade shirts is also a very effective solution.
What to feed in winter?
In winter, dogs should be given food that is warm, energetic and easily digestible. Boiled chicken or fish (without spices), porridge or oats (in water), boiled potatoes, sweet potatoes, eggs, but only the white part. Do not let the yellow part cool in the cold, hot water and light soups also maintain their internal warmth. He warned that food containing onion, garlic and salt should be completely avoided during this season as it is toxic for dogs. Vaccination is also very important, especially to protect against dangerous viruses like parvo and distemper.
Dr. Brihaspati Bharti clearly says that awareness is the biggest weapon for the safety and health of dogs in winter. If proper care is taken of food, walks, grooming and warmth, then pet dogs can bear the winter comfortably and can also avoid diseases.
