How To Keep Your Pet Warm

T'is the season to be holly and jolly but more importantly warm!! We're pulling out our sweaters and fuzzy socks, but what about our pets?

We conjure up images of ourselves with our pets snuggled up in a blanket, hot coco in hand with a crackling fire. And while for some that is realistic - it's the farthest thing from the truth with Zoey for example. Some dogs will spend their evenings like the description above but others still need to get out and run off the excessive energy. The question is: how do we keep them warm while keeping them active in the winter months?

Then there is Charlee, our little hairless wonder (she's not really hairless but due to Addison's Disease her hair has thinned tremendously.) She has had a variety of different jackets over the years due to living in the tundra of Northern Wisconsin.

One of my all time favorite brands is Ruffwear. I can't recommend them enough! They're high quality products, designed with certain activities in mind. For example The Powder Hound Jacket pictured above. It's designed for winter activity - insulated to help keep your dog warm but enough give and stretch so your dog doesn't feel restricted. Obviously a jacket like this is going to cost more than $20, but I promise you they are worth the investment to have a product that is long lasting and actually works!

There are some dogs that need the extra warmth even indoors. Petsmart, Petco, Target, Gordman's, Baxter Boo - are all places that offer dog swears. Don't forget to check out your local small businesses too - you can get some really unique finds including more than just clothes. 

Fleece blankets are also a great additive! Whether you're warming up in your car after an nice winter walk, wrapping your dog in a blanket at home on the couch, or if they like to nest putting an extra blanket on your dogs bed (that's what I do for Zoey!)

Speaking of blankets - one way to keep the both of you warm would be to buy an electric blanket, then you can have a snuggle fest and watch fun Christmas movies together!

While I can't say I've tried these Ruffwear Polar Trex Dog Boots, I have heard many good things about them. They are designed for for warmth, traction and protection during the winter months. The key to buying dog boots, in my opinion, besides research and making sure you're buying a quality pair, but to make sure you measure your dogs feet and follow the sizing charts! 

Those are some ideas to help keep your furry friend warm this winter! Do you have any ideas or suggestions? Let's help each other out - put your thoughts in the comments below!

Taryn & Zoey

Carol & Charlee