Make sure you and your dog can be seen
Doggy hi-vis gadgets like LED leads, harnesses and hi-vis collars are useful to 22% of our surveyed dog customers. These safety products could help you and your dog be seen by other pedestrians, cyclists, and drivers.
Consider safety
Walking in the dark might be worrying for many people, if you are unable to get out and about during the daylight hours try and stick to well-lit places or routes you know well. Perhaps consider walking with other dog walking friends or take a family member along to stretch their legs.
Carry a torch
The days tend to feel shorter and what light we do get, seems to fade rapidly. 11% of customers surveyed suggested they carry a torch when out and about on those dark winter walks. While our four-legged friends have great eyesight, a torch can help us humans see more clearly.
Have a towel ready
Winter is the prime season for your dog to get wet and muddy, it’s a good idea to prepare some items before you leave the house ready for returning with your mucky pup. Some owners have suggested using an old washing up bowl with warm water to help clean the mud and grit from their dogs’ paws. Others suggest having a towel handy by the door to help clean up your mucky pups’ paws and under belly.
Make sure your dog is dry and warm
With energy bills on the rise and more and more people layering up in their homes, it is important to make sure your dog is warm and dry as they can be affected by the cold temperatures just like us. Dogs can also get winter colds* if precautions aren’t taken to help keep your doggo warm and dry. Unlike us humans they can’t remove their wet coats after a walk, they need a little help from their humans to clean up and warm up.
Wrap up warm
40% of surveyed dog owners suggest that during winter months a good pair of waterproof shoes or boots and waterproof clothing could prove useful. This not only helps you stay warm and avoid catching a cold but helps you enjoy the walks just a little more.
Consider a dog coat
Not only you should wrap up, but a dog coat has been suggested as useful by 17% of surveyed customers. A good dog coat can not only keep water off your pooch’s fur, but it can also add an extra layer of warmth, and some have reflective lights built into the designs to help your dog be seen.
