Vidhi Malla
New Delhi: Winters are around the corner and if you have a canine child above 9 years (dog’s age in human years), it is time to ensure more care and warmth. Humans age differently from dogs and the size of the dog also determines their age when translated to their real age.
So, say if you have a small dog of around 9 years in human years, the actual age of the dog will be around 52 years. For medium and large/giant breeds, this number will be 56 years and 61 years respectively.
On the winter front, while some breeds can withstand low temperatures, dogs with thinner hair, like beagles, boxers and even your close home Indian pariah dogs, need a bit of extra attention.
Here are some tips to prepare better and ensure that your canine companion has a less stressful and cozy winters;
1. Groom them regularly: While everyone goes gung-ho about grooming dogs in the summers, to ensure non matting and easy breathing of the skin, one forgets the importance of grooming in winters. Grooming is extremely crucial to ensure that hair is not matted, as matted hair does not repel water or dew. Also, un-groomed hair can cause infection and itching, under the winter clothing. Bonus point: DO NOT trim or shave your dog’s hair because a full coat helps to keep the dog warm.
2. Get warm clothing: I am not a fan of dog coats, I prefer T-shirts for my dogs but that should not stop you from buying whatever you feel can add an extra layer of warmth. Nowadays, a lot of brands also have amazing looking sweaters for dogs of all sizes. Go and indulge in bright colors and super cute designs and while you are at, perhaps buy a reflective color for them to be visible during walks.
3. Paw protection is important too: I regularly check my pet’s paws for cracks. Dog paws can crack during winters due to the cold and dryness and a thin layer of balms or good old Vaseline can go a long way to ensure that they do not face any discomfort.
4. Sleep ready: Living with a 10 year old Indian breed dog (60 years in actual human years) is not easy. He is perhaps more grumpy than my grandpa! My dog prefers blankets and warm beds in winters which is a clear indicator for us to up our game in terms of his bedding. So, come winters, it is important to ensure clean blankets, thick bedding and perhaps a pillow for your canine child. If you are in extremely cold areas, a great insulator can be a wood crate at the base of the bed to give it a lift and also protect the dog from the direct chill.
5. Limit the baths: My dogs hate baths during winters, so do many others that I have come across. Bathing your dog is important but it is important to limit the number. The oil in the dog coat is important for them; plus once the bath is given, it is extremely important to ensure that the coat is completely dried.
6. Food intake: While your vet might be the best person to advise you on the food quantity, a small increase is ok as a lot of energy is spent on keeping warm.
7. Follow your instincts: You know your pet and you are the best judge of their habits and discomforts. Keep a watch out for any pains, difficulty in walking or getting up or too much resting. Avoid long walks if it tires your dog but don’t stop them altogether. Keep your dog indoors and play indoor games if your dog refuses to go out or if it gets too cold.
Rule of the thumb – If it is not good enough for you, it is not good enough for your canine child.
Picture courtesy: Instagram/pupwax