companions: let it snow

Companions

Let it snow

by gerri reid, dvm

"Oh, the weather outside is frightful, But the fire is so delightful, and since we've no place to go Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!"

Well Winter is upon us and the weather sure turned cold fast this year. We all wonder if we will have a White Christmas. Time for building Snowman and having snowball fights. Not only do the pets enjoy the cold weather but some of our pets are crazy about snow! For those who have Siberian Huskies or other cold -loving breeds, this is their kind of weather! For older pets with arthritis, cold weather with ice/snow can be difficult. Here are some tips to help your "Seasoned" pets survive Old Man Winter and Jack Frost!

Supplementing your pet with glucosamine/chondroitin is a good place to start. This supplement will help lubricate their joints as joints tend to become stiff in the winter. Many diets have some amount of joint supplement in it. But to help support your pet's joint a bit more, aske your regular Veterinarian about their recommended joint supplement. Joint supplements come in flavorful chews which helps with the ease of your pet taking the supplement more. And for those picky pets, there are joint supplements that can be sprinkled on to food. Lastly, if you find that after implementing these supplements still leaves your pet stiff and painful, consider talking to your Veterinarian about pain medication.

Healthy joints don't just happen with joint supplements. During the cold months, we need to remember to keep our older pets in motion. If the weather permits, take your pet for a brief walk each day. Daily walks will help loosen up stiff joints and relieve tight muscles. Even a good throw of the ball has its benefits too. Plus, not only will your pet get some exercise but it can also benefit you as well.

As a Mobile Veterinarian, I am able to go into pet owner's homes and see my patients' living conditions. Many homes being built today have mostly hardwood or tile flooring. Gone are the days of carpet! So, when it comes to older pets, this type of flooring is not ideal for them. I have had to make recommendations to owners for pets with arthritis or difficulty walking to provide some form of traction. This includes placing runners or extra rugs in the common walkways to help your pet get around easier. Also, if the walkway outside is wet or slippery, consider putting boots on your pet's feet to prevent any injury/trauma.

As you shop for some footwear for your pet, don't forget to get them a warm jacket. Cold weather tends to make joints hurt a bit more. Keeping your pet warm during the winter is essential as they tend to get cold too. Keeping a fire going in your house or just keeping the house warm will also comfort your pet. Self-w warming orthopedic beds are available which help reflect your pet's body heat. It is Christmas time, so why not put these items on the Christmas List for your pet!

The Holiday season is here! Time for gatherings around the dinner table with our Family and Friends and "Caroling through the night". We all love to see the first signs of snow but all that flurry stuff can take a toll on our pets. Follow these recommendations for your older pet and they are bound to have a Very Merry Christmas! Wishing All of You a Very Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year! From Dr. Gerri Reid, Kourtney & Damian

Dr. Gerri S. Reid is the Owner/Veterinarian of Reid Mobile Veterinary Services. She can be reached at 540-623-3029 or reidmobilevetservices.com or facebook @ReidMobileVetServices