When walking dogs, how cold is “too cold” for bare paws on sidewalks?
Dogs can become accustomed to the temperatures where they live so ask your veterinary team for specific advice. In general, young puppies and elderly dogs will have more difficulty with the cold. Short-haired dogs and toy breeds with little to no hair are especially susceptible to the cold, while the northern breeds (huskies and malamutes) have thicker pads, which help protect them from the cold. Sidewalk conditions should also be a factor because moisture (slushy snow or rain) will make pets cold faster. Also, melting agents for snow can be toxic if ingested and can cause skin burns on paws and foot pads. Check for non-toxic forms to use in your yard. Remove ice and snowballs from your pet’s hair and consider rinsing and drying a pet’s paws after outdoor activity. Watch for signs of dry, cracked pads, which can cause pain. Try using petroleum jelly or baby oil to protect and treat paws. Q: Are cats equally susceptible to the cold? A: Cats can be even more susceptible to the cold becau
