It’s that time of year when you’re supposed to be hanging out with friends, family, or even your favourite dog, but you’ve got to make sure they stay safe. No matter where you are, dogs can take a serious fall during the cold winter months.

In the cold winter weather, dogs get antsy and bored. This can lead to them losing their minds and running into the street, or being trapped in yards or basements. At worst, they might also get lost. If you have done something like say, register dog microchip, in the pet’s body, they can be found. However, this might not be a solution for your dog’s trauma during winter. How can you prevent this from happening?

What are the Top 5 Winter Holiday Hazards for Dogs?

Winter is here, and while most people can enjoy the fun of sledding with their dogs, some of us will be visiting our local emergency vet, or worse, the emergency hospital for pets, with our furry friends. It’s usually the dog owners who are more at risk than the dogs themselves. The following are five of the most common winter holiday hazards for dogs that can be serious or potentially life-threatening.

1. Fireworks: Fireworks are popular fireworks for the holiday season. However, they are dangerous for dogs. Dogs are sensitive to loud noises, so fireworks can trigger a fear response that can cause them to react with aggression or obedience issues.
2. Snow:
   The cold weather in many parts of the world means that your dog must keep their body temperature up to stay warm, which is done by drinking lots of water. This will keep their bodies hydrated and help them cool down. In cold weather, dogs can get dehydrated, which can lead to a host of health problems, such as an increased risk of hypothermia. To avoid these instances, you can keep the house warm and cozy by installing a heating system or furnace that can maintain the room temperature to normal. If you already have a furnace or other heating system, you may just need to look for firms like Hollenbach (https://hollenbachoil.com/), or similar oil delivery businesses that can supply heating oil to your doorstep. This in turn can ensure that your house remains heated throughout the winter providing a comfortable environment for your dog. If you have a furnace and it is not very effective in winters, you can explore various companies for furnace repair in Manassas, VA, or elsewhere and get the problem solved quickly to keep your dog healthy.
3. Christmas Tree Lights: One of the most famous holiday traditions is the Christmas tree, which usually contains ornaments and plastic baubles. These Christmas tree lights can be very dangerous for our dogs. As Christmas approaches, many people may forget that the dog is not just your furry friend but also a living creature that can be hurt in many ways.
4. Candy Canes: Candy canes are a winter holiday tradition often given out during Christmastime. However, they are eaten by many dogs, young and old, resulting in many types of ailments. Candy canes, also known as “Old Fashioned Candy Canes,” are created in the shape of a stick, usually in the shape of a cylinder or a stick. Since they are made in the shape of a stick, they are easy to eat, and they are also easy to get lodged in your dog’s throat or gums. This can cause choking or gagging, and quite often, these canes cause the dog to lose control of his bowels.
5. The Fireplace: A cozy fire may be just what you need to keep your dog entertained in the winter. However, in addition to being a source of heat, a fireplace can pose many dangerous hazards for pets in the home. Both outdoor and indoor fireplaces can pose threats for pets when used during the holiday season. It’s crucial to be aware of the dangers when using the fireplace and chimney and take precautions to keep pets safe. However, to mitigate the threats posed by a fireplace, you can opt for dog-friendly heating appliances and gadgets, which are often touted as a great way to keep your furry friend happy during the cold months. For instance, you can choose to install an electric furnace in your house with the help of professionals like the ones available at Barnett Electrical (barnettelectrical.com/oklahoma-city-furnace-installation-and-replacement/) and its likes. Choosing an electric furnace is safer because they do not use gas or oil and cannot cause leaks in your home. Additionally, they do not produce carbon monoxide, so your pets can be safe from the danger of breathing toxic fumes. Moreover, since electric furnaces do not burn wood to heat your home, they are less likely to cause a fire.

How to Make Your Dog Safer in These Harsh Winter Months

With the cold, snowy weather settling in, it’s more important than ever to make sure your furry friend is safe. Here are some tips on how to do just that, so you can both stay safe and happy this winter. Winter is a great time for your dog to get outside and enjoy the snow. However, when left outside in cold weather, your pet may be exposed to the following winter holiday hazards:

1) Snow from sidewalks and streets can get in your dog’s eyes.

2) Exposed metal from Christmas decorations can cause a dog’s paw to puncture a paw pad, resulting in a painful wound.

3) Snow can cause a dog’s paws to become frostbitten.

4) Left outside in the cold, a dog may develop a condition called hypothermia, in which the body’s heat is not maintained at a proper body temperature.

5) In extreme cold, a dog may freeze to death.

In conclusion, this holiday season, keep an eye on your dog’s paws as they waddle through the snow. If you notice any of the signs of frostbite, see a veterinarian as soon as possible.