Walking in a Winter Wonderland - Jan/Feb 11

by Pat Hennessy

Some of us take joy when the first snowflakes being to fall and get just as excited about a deep snowfall as the children waiting to find out if their school is on the list of closings. If you are one that loves winter, don’t keep all that joy for yourself!.

One of the major causes of seasonal disorder is the lack of daylight. To compensate for the shorter days, get out with your companion animal at least 2-3 times a week. If it’s icy or too cold for a walk then go for a ride. Take your dog on some of your quick errands, such as the post office, the bank, or a fast food run (don’t leave them in the car alone). You could even take your cat. It’s a good idea to take Kitty out occasionally anyway (so the only time she travels isn’t just to go to the vet). You should offer her a tasty treat once you are back home (as she is not likely to take a treat while riding in the car).

Playing Outside in the Snow!
Your dog may enjoy going out to play in the snow as well. As long as he is healthy enough for the activity (and it’s not too cold), include your dog in some old fashioned play — throwing snowballs, sledding down a hill, just romping around and having fun. Make a snow dog or snow cat in your front yard. If your dog has very thin fur, then you will want her to make a fashion statement by donning that pretty sweater you gave her for the holidays.

Play is an important part of interaction within the human, canine, and feline species. It is equally as enjoyable between species. Your cat doesn’t care that you are human when you are dragging a string around the house or running a laser beam across the floor. She isn’t going to turn her nose up because you don’t have whiskers and a tail. And your dog certainly doesn’t care that you are taller than he is and not coming around to sniff the end that doesn’t greet you. He is perfectly happy to play with you and may even seek you out over one of his siblings or cousins because you can throw the ball and scratch him under the chin when he brings it back.

If you are not one that enjoys the colder, blustery season, you can still get your canine (or feline) in on the act, which might make it more enjoyable and help you to get through it. Let your dog be your partner while you shovel the porch or sidewalk. Toss a toy out in the snow and let Tank look for it while you clear a path. Tossing a few treats is also an option. It is not a good idea to let your cat out in the snow and cold, but you can bring her some of Frosty to enjoy (briefly) inside. Make a tiny snowball and roll it in some catnip, then roll it across the floor for Muffin. When the snow melts she will still have the catnip to roll around in and enjoy. We are all usually less active during the winter months, so any extra exercise that Tank or Muffin gets is a plus.
If you have a senior dog or cat, or one with a chronic illness, then winter will not be his or her season. That would be the time to provide some extra tender loving care. Add a soft blanket to his bed. Give him a short gentle massage. If he has a bit of arthritis, ask your veterinarian about supplements, such as glucosamine. Snuggle with your senior companion - it will do you both a world of good.

Fun or Challenges?
Winter may bring fun or challenges, but you also must be aware of the hazards that come along with it. Always keep an eye on your pets to ensure they don’t get into antifreeze. Your neighbor may have spilled some where it ran down their driveway and out into the street where you walk. If you have a cat that likes to venture outdoors, winter is not a good time for her to do that. Cats frequently run underneath cars (and will seek them out if they are warm from running). They can easily get injured climbing up in the engine or getting into antifreeze that is leaking.

Also take caution that the chemicals most people use to thaw sidewalks are dangerous. There are products that are safe for our animals but many people, especially those without pets, will pick up what is convenient at their closest shopping stop (for groceries or gasoline).

The chemicals used by our community cleaning crews to clear the streets leave a residue that is not good for our pets. You’ll be wearing boots when you take Harley for a walk, but unless you put booties on him he will pick up whatever is on the street or sidewalk. You see how it builds up a white film on your car. Be sure to wash his feet, legs and belly thoroughly when you get back home, to keep him from licking it or allowing the chemicals to be absorbed through the skin.

Even though Buddy loves to go for a ride, winter is not the best time for him to accompany you on errands. A very cold day is as dangerous as a very hot day for leaving Buddy in the car. And if you slid off the road and got stuck, it would be difficult enough for you to get help; you wouldn’t want to worry about Harley in that situation.

It goes without saying that you would avoid time outside when the temperatures drop below freezing, as hypothermia can hit quickly and become deadly. But don’t let bitter wind chills keep you from having winter fun. Send Sammy out to potty and hide her favorite toy. When she comes back in play “Find It.” If it is dangerously cold and you need Sammy to do her “business” quickly, you could bundle up and go out with her — jogging over to her favorite spot (one that has the right smell), which should encourage her to follow you, smell the regular scent, do her business (with praise!), and jog back into the house.  

If you want to warm up on a cold winter night, try baking some home made doggie biscuits. Check out www.all-natural-dog-treat.com and click on Treat Recipes on the left-hand side. There are several good and easy-to-make choices.

Whatever you do this winter, remember it will be spring before you know it — so frolic and play, the cat and dog way, and stay safe out in the winter wonderland.

Pat is a Level 2 TTouch® practitioner, CPDT and member of the IAABC, IAATH and AWA. You may contact N2Paws via email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , phone 816-522-7005, or visit the website www.n2paws.com.