When the winter season rolls around, it is important to watch over your dog extra carefully. Frigid temperatures, ice-melting salt and other things associated with winter can be quite harmful to your furry family member. To keep your pooch healthy and safe, you may need to make certain adjustments during the cold season. Take a closer look at seven winter dangers for dogs.

Antifreeze

If you use antifreeze to winterize your vehicle, make sure that your dog does not get near it. Dogs are attracted to the smell of antifreeze and may ingest it if they get their paws on it. Antifreeze contains the toxin ethylene glycol, which can lead to dangerous side effects in canines, including vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, weakness, and coma.

To prevent antifreeze poisoning in your dog, store antifreeze containers away from your dog's reach and throw away empty containers properly. In addition, check your car's radiator periodically to see if it is leaking antifreeze.

Hypothermia

Although your dog has fur, it doesn't mean they can stay out in the cold for long periods of time. If your dog is left out in the cold for too long, they could develop hypothermia, which can be fatal. In the wintertime, only take your pooch for short walks. If you notice that your dog is shivering or slowing down, take them inside immediately. 

Salt

Salt used to melt ice can also be a hazard to dogs during the winter. If your furry family members steps on this salt, it could irritate their paws. If they lick the salt off their paws, they could experience serious side effects, such as vomiting, diarrhea, and even death.

Remember to wash your dog's paws after they come in from outside. You may also consider buying your dog paw protectors to wear outdoors.

Weight Gain

Just like humans, dogs are more likely to gain weight during the winter. They are not as active when it is cold out and may crave food more often. Excess weight, however, can lead to health problems in your dog, like diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis. Watch your dog's portions carefully during the winter, and avoid feeding them table scraps.

If your dog becomes hungry between meals, feed them carrots, apples, and other healthy snacks.

Holiday Decorations

Decorations can certainly make your house look more festive during the winter holidays, but they may pose dangers for your dog. If your dog chews on tree ornaments or other decorations, they could choke and even experience an intestinal blockage. To avoid these issues, keep decorations far out of your dog's reach.

House Plants

Houseplants, like poinsettia, may look lovely, but they can be toxic to dogs. It is okay to have these plants inside your home as long as you keep them out of your dog's reach.

Rodent Poison

It is actually quite common for dogs to suffer poisoning from rodent poison during the winter. The same poison you use to catch rodents may endanger your dog. Ingesting rodent poison can be deadly for dogs if they aren't treated by a veterinarian immediately.

If you want to use rodent poison, put it outside of your home so that your dog can't get to it.

The idea of your precious pooch getting sick this winter is difficult to think about. However, if you keep a tight eye on your dog and keep dangerous items away, you can keep them safe. If your dog does ingest poison or suffer from hypothermia, you should take them to an animal hospital right away. A veterinarian can evaluate your dog's condition and suggest the appropriate treatment.