Protecting Your Pet’s Skin in Cold Weather

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Some tips for keeping your pets comfortable when the temps dip.

Frigid temperatures are here which means we must take some extra precautions with our pets.  As we crank up the heat in our homes, the dry air can negatively affect the skin on our dogs and cats. Some pets are much more sensitive to the dry air than others and will develop dry, flaky skin in the winter.

If your pet is sensitive to the dry air, below are some steps to keep your dog or cat’s skin healthy in the winter:

  • Try using a humidifier to increase the moisture in air. Increasing the moisture will help prevent your pet’s skin from becoming dry.
  • Limit the number of baths you give your pet. Every time you bathe your pet you strip the natural oils in the skin. Your pet needs these oils to keep their skin healthy. If you must bathe your pet, use an oatmeal shampoo to help maintain moisture.
  • When your dog comes in from the snow wipe his paws dry and remove any ice balls and salt crystals that are stuck on his paw pads or fur. Sidewalk deicers can cause skin irritation. Dog booties that cover the paws are also great for protecting dogs with sensitive paws. There are many commercially available paw pad lubricants that can be applied to the paw pads to keep them healthy and protected from sidewalk deicers.
  • Supplementing omega-3 fatty acids to your pet’s diet can help improve dry flaky skin. Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids and can be easily added to your pet’s food. Contact your veterinarian about the appropriate supplement for your pet.
  • Most importantly, if it is too cold for you to be outside for long periods of time, it is probably too cold for your pet. Keep your pets safe and warm inside.

February special

February is dental health month at Liberty. We will offer 15% off all dental cleanings.

About Dr. Patten

Dr. Patten, owner of Liberty Vet Clinic in Roxborough, has extensive experience in preventative care, dental procedures, emergency medicine, and soft tissue surgery. She lives on Fox Street in East Falls with her husband and their two sons.

Liberty Vet Clinic
8919 Ridge Ave
(215) 483-1066

 

About Dr. Caroline Patten 25 Articles
Dr. Patten, owner of Liberty Vet Clinic in Roxborough, has extensive experience in preventative care, dental procedures, emergency medicine, and soft tissue surgery. She lives on Fox Street in East Falls with her two sons.

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