Preparing Your Pet for Winter: Health and Fashion Tips
When the weather starts to change from fall to winter, are you and your pet ready for the cold?
In today’s blog post I want to help you prepare your fur baby for the winter ahead. I’ll let you in on some health and fashion tips that will make you feel like you’re well equipped for the cold months this year.
From how to layer your pet to selecting the perfect winter coat - I got you and your furry family member covered. Plus, be sure to stick around until the end because I’m sharing some winter treat ideas to keep your pet’s belly happy and warm this year.
Layers are your new best friend
It’s never fun being cold, especially for your pup or cat. The best way to keep your pet warm during these cold months is to use your layers as the weather turns.
A good example of this is to have a lightweight tank or sweater for fall and then, for those very cold winter months, layer that lightweight tank or sweater with a jacket.
By combining a base layer with a warm coat, you can keep them cozy and comfortable while headed out for your walks. While they’re indoors, you can simply keep a lightweight layer on them so they’re comfortable.
Tip: For those wet weather days, get two lightweight layers- one for their walks to layer under a jacket and one for lounging around the house. That way you can take off their wet clothes and change them into something dry and warm once you get home.
Here are some lightweight layers that I have in the shop that you can start to add to keep them extra warm: Hoodies & Sweaters
Choose the right material
You want to make sure you are selecting the right material for the specific weather situations.
In wet weather, you want to have a waterproof material that keeps the majority of their bodies dry. In snowy weather you want to have something that keeps them really warm and dry.
And just to note, insulated coats are good at adding extra warmth without bulkiness.
I have new coats in the shop, if you’d like to check them out. They are warm and very durable and range from materials that are reflective, waterproof, as well as special recovery materials.
You can check them out here: Dog Coats
Tip: Make sure you get the right size and fit.
How To Measure a Dog or Cat:
Use a soft measuring tape to measure around your pet’s neck, chest, and length. If you need help, please click here to email us. You can view the image below or the size chart within each product description.
Stylish Winter Fashion and Accessories
Here are some of my top stylish picks from the shop. I made sure to pick trendy designs that come in all sorts of colors and patterns for any pet owner who wants their pets to look stylish AND warm this winter.
Looking for an accessory? You can add a visibility harness to match one of our coats, or if your pet can handle it- try a scarf, or hat to keep your fur baby warm as well as fashionable during the winter.
A Winter Treat for Your Furry Friend
Now to keep your pet belly happy and warm this winter, try this DIY Treat Recipe! My mini dog muffins include pumpkin and peanut butter, which are perfect for the season. They also make a perfect yummy treat for those snowed-in days.
Peanut Butter and Banana Dog Muffins:
Adjust ingredients as needed for your pup.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole wheat flour (optional Coconut Flour, Oat Flour, or Almond Flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 cup unsalted, organic, natural peanut butter (1-2 ingredients only)
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 1/4 cup honey or organic pure apple sauce
- 1 cup water
Instructions:
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a muffin tin with paper liners or grease it lightly.
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and rolled oats.
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In a separate, microwave-safe bowl, melt the peanut butter until it's easy to mix. You can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
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Add the mashed banana, honey, and water to the melted peanut butter. Mix well.
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Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Spoon the batter into the muffin cups, filling each about two-thirds full.
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Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the muffins to cool completely before serving them to your furry friend.
Remember, while these ingredients are generally safe for dogs, it's always a good idea to check with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or if your dog has specific dietary restrictions. Additionally, treats should be given in moderation, and individual sensitivities can vary.
Not into baking...I got you covered! I just added some yummy new treats for dogs and cats to the shop. These also make great stocking stuffers! You can check them out here.
or order a dog cake here.
Keep One of These On Hand
One last thing you can do to keep your fur baby warm during the winter months is to make sure to have a cozy warm blanket just for them. This is your chance to give your fur baby the royal treatment during the winter- trust me- they will love it!
I have a great collection in the shop! They’re ultra-soft, high-quality blankets and throws that are designed to keep your pet warm all day and night so they can curl up and drift off into sweet cozy dreams.
I know this can be a lot to remember to keep on hand for your fur baby this winter. That’s why I created a quick checklist for you so you can start to stock up on your winter items for your pet.
Remember, the main thing you want to do is make sure your pet is kept warm and comfortable for the winter months ahead. There is a ton of information out there and with a simple Google search you can find some great tips and ideas for other ways to keep them oh so cozy. But if you want to keep it simple- stick with the layers, cozy beds, and warm blankets.
Wishing you a wonderful winter season with your furry family members.
More Colors of the Visibility Harness
