{"id":284,"date":"2015-01-23T13:12:09","date_gmt":"2015-01-23T20:12:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/?p=284"},"modified":"2024-07-25T04:40:06","modified_gmt":"2024-07-25T11:40:06","slug":"powder-hounds-keeping-pets-active-throughout-winters-chill","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.rocklinranchvet.com\/blog\/powder-hounds-keeping-pets-active-throughout-winters-chill\/","title":{"rendered":"Powder Hounds: Keeping Pets Active Throughout Winter\u2019s Chill"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"AThe Rocklin area boasts a fairly reasonable winter climate that allows for keeping up with a year-round schedule of outdoor activities. But, even in light of our geographical luck, we can all get into a seasonal funk that perpetuates a serious lack of excitement regarding the simple act of going outside.<\/p>\n

Regrettably, pets can suffer a similar seasonal happiness deficit. So what do you do when a pet doesn\u2019t want to have anything to do with the backyard, let alone a hike or the dog park? If you and your pet are trying to cope with colder temperatures, shorter days, and less sunshine, we have some suggestions for keeping pets active throughout the coming months. And, by the time that first crocus pops up, you and your pet will be ready to go!<\/p>\n

Focus and Commit!<\/i><\/b><\/h3>\n

Arthritic, elderly, or ailing pets aren\u2019t the only ones that turn up their noses at the cold weather. The mere thought of paw pads touching cold concrete or frozen grass can turn off any pet, but there are ways you can help.<\/p>\n

Invest in a cozy sweater, vest, or jacket<\/a> to keep the chill off your pet\u2019s coat. Your pet may even like booties once he or she realizes how helpful they can be. Likewise, do your best to take your pet out during the warmest parts of the day if possible, instead of the colder early morning and evening hours.<\/p>\n

New Spots + New Friends = Excitement!<\/i><\/b><\/h3>\n

While it\u2019s nice that you and your pet have solidarity when it comes to the winter blues, get out of your collective ruts by visiting new places.<\/p>\n

There are lots of parks and attractions<\/a> in and around Rocklin that are designed for you and your pet to enjoy. Get yourselves layered up in new winter duds and try to enjoy the crisp air and winter landscape. Chances are you\u2019ll meet new pets and families that share the same seasonal struggle. Socialization is fabulous for both you and your pet as it increases your interest in going outside.<\/p>\n

Backyard Fun<\/i><\/b><\/h3>\n

Another way for you to stay active is to build a temporary agility or obstacle course<\/a> in your yard. You can also encourage certain tricks indoors using brooms or mops to make jumps, a dog bed for a pause box, and a hula hoop for the tire traditionally used. Employ treats and kudos to keep your pet begging for more.<\/p>\n

You can also up the ante with any of these activities:<\/p>\n