Outside of the confines of an enclosed yard or off-leash park, once the snow falls it can be difficult of dogs to maintain a sense of their bearings and can also lose their scent if permitted to wander too far. In areas where the wind blows strongly and during snowstorms, the continually falling snow makes it even easier for a dog to become lost.

A dog who cannot find its way back to its owner or home is at great risk of hypothermia and frostbite, both conditions that require emergency treatment if discovered.

Does this mean that you shouldn’t walk your dog?

Of course not!

Walking your dog is an essential part of their daily routine and if weather is permitting, it’s best to still get outside and share the exercise. Here are some tips for winter walking with your dog to keep in mind:

• If there is currently a snowstorm, stay indoors and only let your pet outside to void. Take them on a leash to do so or ensure that they come back indoors immediately after.
• If it snows while you are on a walk with your dog, do not let them off-leash, rather keep them at your side for their safety and comfort.
• Ensure that your dog is wearing their ID tags at all times and that the contact information is up to date.
• Have your pets microchipped for permanent and reliable identification, available through your veterinarian and scannable anywhere lost pets are found.

If you have other questions about how to keep your pet safe outside during the winter months, contact your local veterinarian today.