Whilst we all enjoy the snow, spare a thought for our four legged friends who might not be quite so keen. Here are some things to remember to keep them safe.

1. During sub zero temperatures please be careful around frozen ponds. If your dog is off the lead and suddenly dashes across the ice to something interesting – it could be fatal, for both you and the pet. Don’t take unnecessary risks and perhaps plan your walks in an area that is safer.

2. When there is significant snowfall underfoot please be careful about hidden or sharp objects under the snow. Some dogs may benefit from protection booties (yes I didn’t know they existed either!) At the very least watch out for hidden pavement kerbs – whilst the dog might be fine, you don’t want to trip over the kerb, fall and squish your dog!

Dog protection booties for winter weather

3. If the temperatures are really cold, your dog (particularly some of the smaller breeds) might benefit from a coat or jacket. There are some quite snazzy ones about, but rather than being a fashion item, it is a necessity for some breeds of dog who could be prone to Hypothermia if subjected to the cold temperatures for any length of time. Here’s an example of a danish design dog jacket – and you’d think they know something about cold temperatures!

A Danish designed dog jacket

4. Be aware of the dangers of Rock Salt used to grit our roads and pavements. If dogs lick their paws after walking on rock salted paths and roads it could cause them to become ill. According to Richard Bandy of Happy Hounds “hundreds of cats and dogs are becoming seriously ill, and in some cases dying after walking through rock salt and antifreeze, and then licking it off their paws.”  The advice is to wash your dogs paws after coming in from a dog walk, and if you think they have ingested any rock salt and appear to be showing signs of discomfort, then take them to the vets for further advice and a check up.