Dogs in the snow

@JudyEv (374886)
Rockingham, Australia
March 20, 2026 2:06am CST
I enjoyed reading about the service/assistance dogs that went with their owners to the Winter Paralympics. Among all the discussion was information on how the dogs cope with the very cold conditions. Some of the problems can be ice crystals lodging between the toes, snow clumping in the fur, dry or cracked pads from cold surfaces and irritations or burning of the skin from salt and de-icing chemicals used around the venues. Some of the dogs are equipped with boots and handlers may use paw wax or balm to minimise any problems. In general, dogs at winter sports events don’t spend a lot of time outside. So I’m wondering if myLotters that live in really cold conditions and have dogs, do you need to take any precautions when/if you take them outside in the snow? The photo is mine.
2 people like this
1 response
@AmbiePam (115472)
• United States
40m
I remember buying shoes for my then dog, Sherlock. He refused to wear them. Luckily, in Oklahoma in snows like once a year. And all year round I clean my dog’s paws when they come inside.