Mystique’s Winter Walking Safety Tips: A Feline’s Guide to Helping Your Pooch Survive the Cold

Hello, dear humans. I’m Mystique, the resident feline queen of Inwood Animal Clinic and undisputed expert on staying warm, cozy, and intellectually superior at all times.

While you’re out there bundling up your beloved pooches for winter walks, I watch from my sunlit windowsill. I’ve learned that while winter weather conditions may look magical through the glass, they seem to create a host of problems for our canine friends.

But alas, most dogs are just too big to use the litter box. In an act of truly selfless generosity, I’ve decided to share my winter walking safety wisdom to help you keep your dog (or adventurous cat) safe and reduce unplanned trips to Inwood Animal Clinic for weather-related injuries this season.

Let’s begin, shall we?

1. Don’t let fur fool you

Just because your dog has a fur coat doesn’t mean they’re equipped to handle freezing temperatures. Trust me—I have a glorious coat, but I wouldn’t be caught dead rolling in the freezing slush and risking hypothermia.

Some dog breeds, like those beautiful Huskies, were pretty much made for snow. But your tiny, shivering Chihuahuas and practically naked pit-bull types are better suited to an evening keeping up their body temperature by the fire. Remember: If you’re cold, they probably are too.

2. Dress for the weather

Here’s an important winter walking safety tip: If your pooch is thin or has a short coat, they could benefit from wearing a winter coat. Although I value beauty and style, this is one time when you should choose function over fashion. Select a coat with a waterproof outer layer to keep your pup warm and dry.

And while we’re dressing up your dog, let’s talk about paws. Between frozen sidewalks, sharp ice, and road salt, a dog’s feet can take a beating out there. Booties can protect paw pads from chemical burns and frostbite. If your pup can’t handle having their feet covered, try a paw wax or moisturizer to protect your dog’s paws during walks instead.

3. Keep walks short

Remember: You’re aiming for a winter walk, not a polar expedition. Many dogs, especially small dogs, short-haired dogs, and older dogs, don’t like the cold and freezing temperatures. So, unless your canine companion is part sled dog, keep walks short and sweet.

Dogs are creatures of habit. Shorter, more frequent walks help maintain their sensitive routine without exposing them to dangerously cold weather. Aim to walk when the sun is out to minimize freezing temperatures and icy patches that can cause dangerous falls.

4. Don’t let your dog lick the sidewalks

You’d think this winter walking safety tip goes without saying, but we all know dogs lick first, then think second. De-icers and antifreeze can seriously harm your pet, causing problems ranging from mild chemical burns to kidney failure. Pet parents, don’t forget to wipe down your dog’s (or cat’s) paws after each walk. If you use ice melt on outside walks, look for a dog-safe product.

5. Go easy on older pets

Older dogs, dogs with arthritis, and pets with health issues might have a hard time staying warm in cold temperatures. Add icy sidewalks to the mix, and you’ve got a recipe for serious injury that could end up with a visit to the vet.

Dogs often lack the self-reflective capacity to understand their limits or to adhere to my winter walking safety tips. So, you may need to do that for them.

6. Keep your pet busy indoors

Some pets need daily walks and outdoor time to wear off excess energy. Others, like myself, have mastered the art of indoor excellence and extended relaxation. However, even I can admit that high-energy types need something to do. 

Luckily, there are many indoor activities you can use to keep your pet busy on icy, frigid days. Treat puzzles, scent games, and hallway fetch are just a few ideas you can use to prevent boredom. Mental enrichment through training can also help keep your pet’s mind engaged.

Despite the cold weather, your dog will likely still want to venture out. Following my winter walking safety tips can help keep your pup comfortable and safe, and ensure I have a steady stream of dog-watching entertainment strolling by the window!

If you have questions about cold-weather pet care or other ways to care for our canine counterparts, give the team at Inwood Animal Clinic a shout. Just don’t wake me up!

—Mystique