4 January 2012 - Cold Weather Training - 2012

When the temperature is -15° C or colder or when the wind chill is -20° C or colder, Mike will NOT be training or having puppy parties. Most dogs cannot handle these temperatures. Even though dogs have a fur coat on, they can get frostbite in as a little as 10 minutes on their noses, ears, and paws.

For temperatures that are warmer than this, he will train and hold puppy parties. Please make sure that you and your dog are prepared for the winter elements – that includes your children. Put sweaters or coats on short-haired dogs and apply some “Invisible Boot” or parafin to your dog’s paws. This can be purchased at Global Pet Foods in Brampton at the Fortinos Plaza on Bovaird at Worthington. This will help to prevent the snow from balling up between their toes and keep their pads from sticking to the snow or ice. As there may be ice on the grounds – parking lot, driveway, walkways, and the field – Mike advises that you purchase and wear “Trackers” on your boots. These slip on your boots/shoes and have studs that will grab into the ice and help prevent you from falling. They can be purchased at Canadian Tire and Mark’s Work Warehouse.

Please listen for the weather forecasts and be aware of the conditions. Remember that it is at least 5° C colder out here and there is little protection from the wind.

Continue to train in the house, pet store, or anywhere else that provides protection from the cold and has distractions. Forego the walks and the trips to the dog parks. Find innovative ways to play with your dogs inside the house.

Keep warm!!!