Woof! Let’s Talk Winter Basics

Thunder Bay – LIVING – Hi! I’m Behzhig, an 18-month-old German Shepherd, full of fluff, energy, and wisdom beyond my dog biscuits. Winter is sniffing its way into Thunder Bay again, and while you hoomans dig out your mitts and boots, us pets need a little prep too!

I’ve put together my best tips (paw-picked, of course) to help you keep your fur-friends safe, warm, and tail-wagging happy.

Sweaters, Boots & That Weird Cat Behaviour

Let’s start with the obvious – not all of us have my luxurious double coat. Some pups (looking at you, Chihuahuas and Greyhounds) need an extra layer when the snow flies. A warm doggie sweater or coat helps keep body heat in during walks.

Now, boots – I know, they’re awkward at first. But they protect our paws from salt and ice. Plus, slipping on the ice is not dignified – even for a goofy pup like me.

As for cats… well, they act like they own the place. But even your moody feline roommates need a warm spot away from drafts. They may pretend they hate the sweater you bought them, but secretly? They love the attention.

Vehicles Aren’t Cozy Beds (Tell the Cats!)

Here’s a serious one, hoomans. As temperatures dip, outdoor cats (even the neighbour’s “just-out-for-a-minute” tabby) might look for warm spots – like under the hood of your car.

When your vehicle is plugged in overnight or just sitting warm after a drive, cats may sneak into the engine compartment for heat. One good BANG on the hood before you start up can save a life. Just do it. Better safe than sorry. And if your car meows… check again.

Walks, Water Bowls & Warming Up

Keep walkies shorter on the bitter cold days – yes, even if we beg. Frostbite is real. Watch our ears, tails, and paws. And keep a towel handy to dry us off when we get home.

Water bowls freeze fast – make sure there’s fresh, unfrozen water if we’re outside, even for a bit. Heated water bowls are a great investment.

Also, don’t leave us outside too long. Even if we say we want out, we might regret it fast. We aren’t wolves. We like couches now.

Final Tail Wags of Advice

• Keep ID tags up to date – snow can muffle scents and make it harder for us to find our way home.

• Trim paw fur to prevent painful ice balls.

• Stock up on treats (for us and you – we’re in this together).

• Cats will act like they’re cold and offended. That’s normal.

Stay safe, stay warm, and don’t forget the belly rubs. Winter’s tough, but with the right prep, we’ll get through it – pawsitively!

Love, licks, and fluff,
Behzhig 🐾