On a chilly, wet day, New York Metropolis police officer Michael Pascale turned a hero in a couple of means when he got here throughout a black pet named Joey.
Whereas patrolling the general public park on his patrol automobile, he couldn’t ignore the sight of Joey, curled up amongst discarded needles and damaged beer bottles.
On a chilly, wet day, New York Metropolis police officer Michael Pascale turned a hero in additional methods than one when he got here throughout a black dog named Joey.
As he patrolled the general public park on patrol, he couldn’t ignore the sight of Joey, curled up amongst discarded needles and damaged beer bottles.
Throughout these lengthy 72 hours, Officer Pascale visited Joey on daily basis, forming an excellent stronger bond with the candy dog.
Lastly, when management over the strays was lifted, Pascale stored her promise to Joey, adopting him and promising to guard him from cruelty and abandonment.
Right this moment, Joey enjoys exploring New York Metropolis together with his father and cuddling on the sofa together with his mom. Officer Pascale notes that Joey has turn out to be fairly the “Mommy’s boy.”
Whereas Joey could also be good (he sometimes digs via the trash and nonetheless doesn’t prefer to exit within the rain), he’s full and cherished.
How to Keep Your Dog Healthy in Extreme Cold Weather
1. Provide Adequate Shelter
- Insulated Dog House: Ensure your dog has an insulated, draft-free shelter. The dog house should be elevated off the ground and have a door flap to keep out the cold and wind.
- Indoor Space: If possible, bring your dog indoors during extremely cold weather, especially at night.
2. Dress Appropriately
- Dog Sweaters and Coats: Dress your dog in a warm, well-fitting sweater or coat. This is especially important for small, elderly, or short-haired breeds.
- Boots: Use dog boots to protect their paws from ice, snow, and salt. Make sure the boots fit well and don’t cause discomfort.
3. Limit Time Outdoors
- Short Walks: Limit the time your dog spends outside. Short, frequent walks are better than long ones in extreme cold.
- Supervise Playtime: Supervise outdoor play and bring your dog inside if they show signs of being too cold, such as shivering or lifting their paws off the ground.
4. Monitor Health
- Check for Frostbite: Inspect your dog’s paws, ears, and tail for signs of frostbite (pale or gray skin, blisters). If you notice any, contact your vet immediately.
- Watch for Hypothermia: Symptoms include shivering, lethargy, and weakness. Severe cases can cause unconsciousness. Seek veterinary care if you suspect hypothermia.
5. Provide Proper Nutrition
- High-Quality Diet: Ensure your dog is eating a balanced, high-quality diet to maintain their energy levels in cold weather.
- Hydration: Make sure your dog has access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times.
6. Grooming
- Dry Coat: Keep your dog’s coat dry and well-groomed. A clean, dry coat provides better insulation.
- Trim Hair Between Paw Pads: Trim the hair between your dog’s paw pads to prevent ice buildup.
7. Create a Warm Environment Indoors
- Warm Bedding: Provide warm, comfortable bedding in a draft-free area. You can use heated dog beds or add extra blankets.
- Avoid Cold Floors: Keep your dog’s sleeping area off cold floors like tile or concrete. Use rugs or mats for added warmth.
8. Exercise Caution with Outdoor Hazards
- Antifreeze: Keep antifreeze and other chemicals out of reach. Antifreeze is toxic and can be fatal if ingested.
- Salt and De-Icers: Clean your dog’s paws after walks to remove any salt or de-icers, which can irritate their skin.
9. Regular Vet Checkups
- Health Monitoring: Regular vet checkups are essential to monitor your dog’s overall health and address any issues that might make them more vulnerable to cold.
By following these steps, you can help ensure your dog stays healthy and comfortable during the cold winter months. Always pay attention to your dog’s behavior and adjust their care as needed to keep them safe and warm.
Would you like any additional details or have any specific concerns about your dog’s health in cold weather?
