Keeping Your Corgi Safe in Winter Weather

The onset of winter brings extra challenges -- whether it’s driving in inclement weather, keeping our homes warm, or keeping ourselves warm – and it can put extra stress on our pets, too. Like humans, pets face additional challenges with staying warm and dry when it’s raining or snowing outside, which means that as responsible pet parents, we need to take extra precautions with their wellbeing this time of year. Follow these tips to keep your Corgi safe and comfortable in winter weather.

1. Keep your Corgi inside. Domestic pets don’t have inherent traits that protect them from extreme conditions any more than you do so if it’s too nasty for you to be outside, it’s too nasty for your Corgi. Keep them inside.

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2. Hydration is key. Dehydration isn’t just a problem in hot weather. If your Corgi spends time outside and relies on an outside water source, make sure you have a way to keep it from freezing. Pets cannot get sufficient water from eating snow.

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3. Gear up for outdoor activity. If your Corgi enjoys time with you outdoors, make sure they’re equipped for the conditions. To keep them warm and dry, a rain slicker, coat, or sweater serve as more than just cute accessories, and weatherproof booties keep paws dry and provide extra traction on frozen ground. Make sure you don’t stay out longer than is safe for your Corgi, and monitor activity and behavior to make sure they don’t become hypothermic.

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4. Check underneath Ice loves to cling to hair and fur. Keep your Corgi’s paw hair neatly trimmed, and if your Corgi has been outside, clean off and dry wet bellies and inspect paws and tail for ice balls.

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5. Beware toxic chemicals. Where there’s ice, there’s antifreeze. This is highly poisonous to pets and the neon green puddles can be tempting for pets to try to drink from when all other water is frozen. Likewise, de-icers such as salt and other chemicals can be harmful to pets who walk on ground that has been “de-iced” and later lick their paws, ingesting the toxins. If your Corgi has been exposed to de-icers, make sure to rinse paws in warm water and thoroughly dry.

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6. Pets’ joints hurt in cold temps, too. Like some of us, older pets can experience arthritis flare ups and increased discomfort during cold weather. A trip to the vet for a check of your senior Corgi prior to the onset of winter can ensure your Corgi’s health and medications are on track. Remember to handle older pets extra carefully, and diligently keep up medications during cold snaps.

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7. Be prepared for emergencies. In the event you need to evacuate your home, make sure you have pet necessities packed and ready: food, water, litter, medication, towels, blankets, and a favorite toy or other comforting item for your Corgi. A recent photo of your Corgi is also a good idea in case you get separated. Many times, pets are not allowed with their owners at evacuation shelters so have a plan for this ahead of time too. Research local pet friendly hotels, or make arrangements to stay with a friend or family member who lives in a safe area.

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8. ID is a must. Above all, keep a collar and tag on your Corgi with your current phone number. If your Corgi gets lost, the first place the finder will look is on his collar. Additionally, your Corgi should be microchipped and registered with your current info. Check your microchip registry and update your information anytime you move or get a new phone number.