Golden Retrievers And Cold Weather

Golden Retrievers Can Become Victims Of Cold Weather Too

Winter is a nice time of the year, but in many parts of the country it gets extremely cold. Golden Retrievers are known for their resistance to the weather, but they can become victims if exposed for too long.

Their paws, ears, and bottoms are most prone to freezing and frostbite, whether they are walking, standing, or sitting, especially on icy surfaces, in extreme temperatures. They can also suffer hypothermia just like people do especially if they get damp or wet and are exposed to extreme temperatures for long periods of time.

Signs of frostbite include redness of the skin that eventually turns white or grayish, and evidence of shock in your dog. If you notice these signs, do not rub or massage these areas, and do not allow your dog to lick, rub or scratch at them.

Immediate veterinarian attention is needed. If this is not possible then immerse the affected area in warm (not hot) water or use towels soaked in warm water on the area, changing them frequently.

When the affected area is completely warmed, gently towel dry, and apply some Vaseline. Bandage the affected area, and seek a veterinarian for follow up as soon as possible.

If you normally leave your golden retriever outdoors, and you live in cold country, it would be nice, and might also extend your golden retrievers life, if you let him or her into the house on those bitter cold nights, even if it is just a blanket on the floor in the corner of the basement.

Personally I could never sleep a wink, if any of my goldens were outside freezing in the cold, while I was toasty warm in my bed, but that’s me.