Wednesday Wag: It’s dog sweater weather season
By Robin Lempel
Who doesn’t love seeing a dog walking around in an adorable sweater? But with winter in full swing, these sweaters are more than just a fashion statement.
It’s sweater weather. Even for your dog. As we get into the dog days of winter, there are some handy tips to help your pup brave the cold.
My dog Ruby loves the snow. She has a blast romping around in it, eating it, and chasing snowballs. But it can get cold out there. And, frankly, it can get a little dangerous.
Luckily, The New York Times came out with an article on “How to ‘Winterize’ Your Dog.” The article covers everything from keeping your dog warm and dry, to taking care of cracked and itchy skin and paws, to seriously dangerous situations. The cutest advice they have, though, is those hilarious and adorable dog sweaters.
What could be cuter than a dog walking around in people clothes? Wandering around the streets of New York, you can see a ton of little pups walking around in cute little sweaters. They’ve got all types for your posh pup. Yes, they even have matching ones for you and your four-legged friend. And, fine, I did buy matching pajamas for my dog and me. Whatever.
Seeing dogs walk by in sweaters is undeniably adorable, but it’s more than just a fashion statement. It can actually be necessary.
Speaking to The New York Times, vet and author Nancy Kay said it’s important for small or short-haired dogs, weaker dogs, or dogs that spend a lot of time outside to wear a sweater or a coat to protect them from the cold or wet rain and snow. They even suggest buying doggie earmuffs, which is the cutest thing I’ve ever heard.
Ruby’s biggest problem, though, is her paws. The salt they use on the sidewalks when it snows can be painful. Luckily, there are dog boots out there. You just have to make sure your dog gets used to them.
The New York Times article also warns about health hazards from dogs falling into frozen ponds to dogs getting poisoned by licking antifreeze and getting electrified from manhole covers, or sidewalks or lampposts with loose wires. Just use some common sense and avoid any dangerous situations you see.
Winter can be such a fun time to be a dog. There’s so much snow to bound into and explore! Just make sure they bundle up first!