Here’s my answer to the dilemma that daily dog walkers face every winter:
Bundle up your pooch as much as he or she will permit. In Hercules’ case, that means his thick blanket coat that Velcros snugly around his chest — but no boots. He refuses to wear them. Then put on your warmest coat, your ear muffs, your boots with the cleats, the extra-heavy gloves … and go for it.
Most days, that is. There have been very few when a walk has been out of the question, given our willingness to deal with the elements. This, I’m sorry to say, seems to be one of them. It’s 16 degrees as I write, and that’s just too cold for Jack Russell terrier paws. Tomorrow there will be more snow, but the temperature should be above 20. That’s acceptable for a short walk. In fact, because it will be too cold for a long walk, we’ll probably take two short ones.
Admittedly, it would be easier to just declare winter the non-walking season and put away the leash until March. But in the best interests of both Herc and me, I try very hard not to give in to the weather. He needs the exercise, which won’t hurt me, either. More than that, he needs the change of scenery.
Dogs get bored. Unlike us, they can’t pick up a book, get on Facebook or watch a movie. They need their people to help make their lives interesting. Nothing does that better than striking out on an invigorating hike through the park or around the neighborhood.
Ever notice all the sniffing dogs do when they’re on a walk? Those smells are pure entertainment. They stimulate the senses, raise awareness and add intrigue to dog lives.
Today’s a snoozing-on-the-sofa day. Tomorrow we hit the road!
One additional advisory: Wash your dog’s feet after walking on roadways that have been salted. The chemicals in ice-melting formulas can irritate feet. Worse, they can make your dog sick if she licks her feet.