Living in the stunning winter wonderland of Lake Tahoe comes with its unique challenges, especially when it comes to keeping our furry friends active and safe during the colder months. With an average snowfall of over 400 inches and temperatures dipping below freezing, it’s essential to take extra precautions to ensure our pups stay healthy and happy throughout the winter season. It’s just as important to be winter-prepared for them as it is for us.
The owners of Good Pup Fresh Dog Food are outdoor enthusiasts and have spent thousands of hours exploring the mountains in wintertime with our pups. From the time they were puppies until 17 years old, our pups have joined us for our winter adventures and we wanted to share some tips.
Here are 6 essential tips to keep your dog active and safe through winter in Lake Tahoe.
1. Adjust Activity Levels
While it’s crucial to keep your dog active year-round, it’s essential to adjust their exercise routine during the winter months. Sometimes as humans, we have big adventure goals, climbing that mountain or skiing that line and we forget how much extra effort winter can be for our dogs. If you feel over-exerted in the winter conditions there’s a good chance your pup is also struggling. If you’re getting too cold your pup is probably getting too cold.
Just in case: Check in with your pup regularly to see how they are doing. Are they slowing down? Are they shivering? The key is to spot those signs early so you can adjust the objective, adjust their situation, or both.
2. Maintain Paw Health
The snow and ice can wreak havoc on your dog’s paws, causing dryness, cracking, and irritation. After each outdoor adventure, thoroughly wipe your dog’s paws with a warm, damp cloth to remove any ice, salt, or chemical residues. Additionally, consider applying a paw balm or moisturizer to keep their pads hydrated and protected from the elements. Regularly trim the fur between their paw pads to prevent ice buildup and reduce the risk of ice balls forming between their toes. It’s a hard day for your pup when their paws are hurting.
Just in case: Pack some paw protection in your pack, whether that’s some balm or booties just in case your pup’s paws become an issue.
3. Emergency Kit
The Sierras have some of the most extreme weather in the country and it’s crucial to always carry an emergency winter kit for your dog.
- space blanket
- extra water & treats
- dog first aid kit
- tape/cream for paws
- travel towel
Just in Case: Keep an extra space blanket and water in your car for your pup. Getting stuck in your car during a storm happens all the time and having some extra supplies for your dog can save their life.
4. Bundle Up
Just like us, dogs can feel the chill of the winter air, especially breeds with shorter fur or those not accustomed to colder climates. Invest in a high-quality dog jacket to provide extra warmth during outdoor adventures. Look for options that are water-resistant and cover your dog’s chest and abdomen to protect them from snow and moisture. Additionally, consider dog booties to protect their paws from ice, salt, and chemical deicers commonly used on sidewalks and roads.
Just in Case: Pack an extra space blanket, they weigh nothing and can save your pup’s life in an emergency.
5. Stay Visible
With shorter days and bad weather, visibility can be reduced during winter walks and outdoor activities. Ensure your dog is easily visible to others by using reflective gear such as a collar, leash, or harness with reflective strips. You can also attach a blinking LED light to your dog’s collar to make them more visible in low-light conditions or during snowy weather. These simple precautions can help prevent accidents and ensure your dog stays safe during nighttime walks or romps in the snow.
Just in case: Even in the backcountry making sure your pup is visible is important. It’s not hard to lose sight of your dog in deep snow. Something audible like a bell can also help.
6. Rocket Fuel
Make sure you fuel your pup up right with fresh dog food before and after your winter adventures. You perform better with a healthy meal, the same goes for your best friend. Fresh dog food is more bioavailable than kibble, this means your dog can more easily digest and absorb all the good stuff that is naturally occurring within the food. Your pup will have more energy for your winter excursions.
Just in case: Pack a little bag of fresh food for your dog as a snack on a big adventure or when you return to your car. Your pup will thank you!
Winter in Lake Tahoe offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures with our four-legged friends, but it’s essential to prioritize their safety and well-being amidst the snow and cold. By following these six winter safety tips for dogs, you can help ensure your pup stays active, healthy, and happy throughout the winter season, allowing you both to enjoy all the beauty and excitement that Lake Tahoe has to offer.
Get out there and enjoy winter!