Winterizing my dog-A few suggestions
When winter is upon us, we need to focus on the special needs of older dogs, who can be especially susceptible to the extremes of temperature and other stressful, dangerous conditions of winter.
(1) Does your older dog need a sweater? How about a raincoat? Wet fur decreases your dog's ability to fend off the cold. Even if she's never needed these before, as she gets older, she'll be less able to keep herself warm with activity.
(2) Is your dog's sleeping area free from drafts? Is there a blanket and thick mattress pad for her to snuggle under/sleep on?
(3) Does your dog have ready access to unfrozen water? It is preferable for all dogs, including seniors, to live indoors with their family, but, if that's not possible for your dog, ensure there is always a source of water to drink that remains unfrozen.
(4) Never leave anti-freeze in a place that is accessible to your dog. If it spills on the garage floor, wipe it up immediately and rinse the area clean with lots of water. The sweet smell of it is attractive to dogs. Anti-freeze is a poison.