Well it seems as though freezing temps have kicked in earlier this year here in Chicago. Big bummer! It is really important that not only us people are dressed for the brutal weather, but that our pooches are too! Chicago is a city obsessed with salt. The salt that is strewn across the roads and that buildings dump on sidewalks are loaded with chemicals. Those chemicals burn dogs paws and if you even grabbed a handful of the salt, it would burn/sting your hands. Also if they lick their paws and ingest the ice melt they could get upset stomachs and diarrhea.
Another thing to consider is if your dog does not have a double coat like a Shepherd, Akita, Husky etc. you should look into getting them a coat. The windy city sure is windy and our wind chill temperatures are insane! Below I will list some of my favorite winter products for our pooches!
Apache River Dog Coats
Apache River dog coats are awesome! They are thick and lined to really keep out the cold weather. They have full chest coverage and go pretty far up the belly. They also have thigh straps so that if you hit a windy road the jacket won't fly up thus letting all the cold air in under the jacket. My boys love them!
(Beans)
Pawz Boots
Paws boots are great for dogs that have never worn boots. Dogs are able to feel the texture of the ground through them thus they get used to them very quickly! They are similar to balloons in material and disposable so once you see a hole toss it. 12 come in a pack so a pack should last a season unless you let your dog romp in them. They are not good for playing in.
(Tucker)
More Pawz!
(Molly)
Ruff Wear Boots
Ruff Wear Boots are the next step up. When you want something more durable that will last longer. They are really great, have vibram soles to help prevent slipping. Besides being very functional, they are ahhhhdorable!
(FYI Beans looks miffed in almost all pics)
Ruff Wear Boot up close
Be sure to shorten walks in severe temps! If you're uncomfortable, it's likely your pooch is too!
