On the 12 Days of Christmas - Make it a Happy Holiday for Your Dog
Author: Admin | Filed under: Christmas Thoughts - Serious, Dog Tips Thursday Dec 6,2007Make the holidays as enjoyable for your dog as they are for the rest of your family (and maybe better).
1. Walk the dog
You both will benefit from the exercise and bonding. If your home is a beehive of activity and strangers, exercise is a good way to burn off the excess energy and stress your dog may be experiencing.
Only walk in the daylight, when it’s not snowing or sleeting, and when you can see the sidewalk to avoid icy patches. A warm coat and boots are desirable for Toy breeds and a necessity for older small dogs. Shorten the length of time depending on how cold it is. A 5-minute walk s fine for a small dog. If the temperature is below freezing, find an indoor activity instead. Don’t overdo it.
2. Beware the salt
Not just on your table but on your sidewalks and streets. If you don’t use doggy boots, be sure to wash your dog’s paws when before you bring him back in the house. Dip his paws in a bowl of warm water or use a washcloth to wipe them ff. This also will melt any snow or ice he has trapped in his paws. Be sure to dry thoroughly.