Keeping Your Cavalier Warm in Winter
Can you believe this crazy winter weather? Southern California is being drenched with rain and it’s snowing at our higher elevations … even as far away as the Las Vegas and Arizona deserts! So it’s a good time to mention these few tips on keeping your Cavalier King Charles Spaniel safe and warm:
- Limit outdoor time: Even with their lengthy coats and long ears, Cavaliers aren’t meant to spend a great deal of time outside in cold weather. Taking them out for a little muddle-puddling or snow-adventuring is certainly fine, but don’t stay out too long and even consider shortening walks when it’s very cold.
- Dry those paws: Not just for the obvious reasons that wet paws are cold paws, but anything that has been put on the ground to treat for snow or ice, such as salt, de-icers, and anti-freeze (which actually tastes sweet and is as tasty to lick as it is deadly).
- Dress warmly: Small dogs are affected by a chill in the air and puppies have an especially difficult time in controlling their body temperatures, so a fashionable sweater can never hurt.
- Car rides: Cold cars can be as deadly as hot cars, which we all know the dangers of, so don’t leave your Cavalier in the car while you run in for that lovely hot mocha latte!
Above all, watch out for signs like shivering, slow movements (or stopping altogether), and even acting anxious/whining – as these can all be signs of hypothermia. If these occur, wrap your Cavalier up in a blanket and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are cuddlers and will definitely help keep your warm this winter … so you’ll want to do the same for them!
Published On: February 21st, 2019By Gillcrest CavaliersCategories: Cavalier Health & Grooming, Gillcrest Cavaliers