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Protecting Your Dog From Frostbite
by Cheyenne Pratt, Technician, Calico Creek Veterinary Clinic
As we get further into winter, dog owners need to take extra precaution when going outside in frigid weather. When the temperature drops below 320, animals are just as at risk for frostbite as we are. Frostbite can occur if a dog is exposed to freezing temps for extended periods of time, but can happen in as little as 30 minutes. Frostbite happens when the skin and underlying tissue freezes, causing severe damage. It mostly affects a dog’ s extremities, such as the paws, nose, ears, and tail. Any dog can get frost-bite, but young, old, and short-haired dogs are more at risk. Dogs with circulation issues, such as diabetics, are also higher risk. Common signs of frostbite are:
* Cold, stiff skin * Discolored skin( pale, blue or gray) * Pain * Swelling * Blisters( in severe cases) * Black skin after healing( dead tissue)
If you suspect your dog has frostbite, contact your your veterinarian right away; the sooner treatment begins, the less damage will be done. Begin the gradual warming process immediately by getting your dog inside and applying warm( not hot), moist towels to the affected area. Attempting to warm the skin outdoors in the cold will only make it worse. Avoid rubbing and massaging the area or using direct heat, like a hair dryer or heating pad. Wrap the dog in warm, dry blankets( from the dryer) while driving to the vet.
To prevent frostbite, limit walks and outdoor activities during extremely cold weather. Instead, take short, frequent walks, and dry your dog thoroughly with a towel after. Added protection for the paws will help, too. Use dog booties( if your dog will tolerate them) or paw wax / balm. Paw wax forms a protective layer on the paw pads to help prevent frostbite and cracking. Keeping your dog hydrated decreases the risk for frostbite because hydrated skin is more durable in cold temps. Avoid walking on metal surfaces( manholes, bridge grates, etc.), as they freeze quickly and can cause frostbite on contact. The prognosis for frostbite depends on the severity. A mild case generally resolves, leaving minimal damage but more severe cases may cause permanent changes to the tissue. Extreme cases may require surgery to remove dead tissue or amputation.
Around The Hydrant:
News You Can Use
Recalls:
Raw Bistro Pet Fare of Cannon Falls, Minnesota: Recalling select lots of its Grass-Fed Beef Entrée frozen dog food because of possible contamination with Salmonella. Info: 507-291-3153.( 10 / 10 / 25)
Foodynamics of Wisconsin- Recalling Raw Dog Barkery, BellePepper Cats, and Kanu Pets brands- Chicken Hearts and Chicken Heart Slices freezedried treats, because of potential Salmonella contamination. Info: 262-421-5339.( 10 / 9 / 25)
Buy Bones Inc. of Mount Morris, Michigan: Nature ' s Own Pet Chews Bully Bites, due to possible Salmonella contamination. Info: 810-687-2106.( 10 / 7 / 25)
Arrow Reliance Inc. of Washington, DC: Recalling two lots of Darwin ' s Natural Pet Products Bio-Logics All-Natural and Grain-Free Beef Recipe Dog Food, due to Salmonella and Listeria contamination. Info: 877-738-6325.( 9 / 24 / 25)
Blue Ridge Beef, Virginia: Recalling its Blue Ridge Puppy Mix 2 pound logs and Blue Ridge Beef Kitten Mix, due to contamination of Salmonella and Listeria. Info: 704-873-2072.( 4 / 1 // 25)
Supercan, Florida: Recalling one lot of its Bully Sticks Pig Ears Slivers – Thick Cut Piggy Ear Slices pet treats, due to Salmonella contamination. Info:( 689) 808-5419.( 4 / 1 / 25)
Source: dogfoodadvisor. com, amva. org
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