Winter Weather Dangers
Dear Frankie,
I dread winter coming and spending months walking on wet, salted streets in freezing temperatures. Just thinking about it gives me the shivers (in the truest sense of the word).
I can’t tell you how many winters my feet have been cracked, cut, and burned from ice and salt on these walks.
Why don’t the humans get it? If they wear boots, coats, scarves, gloves, and hats when the temperature gets down to a single digit, wouldn’t you think they would understand we also need protection from these weather conditions? Would it be possible to write about this in one of your columns?
Thanks, Lulu
Dear Lulu,
I was delighted to get your letter on two accounts. First, I have been stuck lately on what to write about. Many of my recent letters have been about dating and finding the “right one.” Really, how many ways can I say maybe there isn’t a right one, or could your standards be too high?
Second, winter canine foot care is an important issue that needs more attention in the press. So here are some tips for dog walkers living in cold climates.
Winter walks in arctic temperatures should be used for their intended purpose — elimination and relief.
It’s OK to leave the exercise component of a typical walk aside for a few days. I would also recommend that you rinse your dog’s feet and check them when you return from a walk to be sure there is no salt left on or between their foot pads and no cuts.
Canine foot wax is another way to protect your dog’s feet from salt burns. Removing the fur between your dog’s pads is also a good prevention measure. When foot fur gets wet and freezes, it can be sharp as a knife and cut into your dog’s feet. If left unattended, these cuts can become infected and seriously compromise your dog’s ability to stand or walk.
Foot pain and infections are no laughing matter. I’m fully confident, readers, now that the issue has been brought to your attention, you will take the necessary steps to protect your dog from winter hazards.
On a lighter note: Wishing you all a Happy and Fulfilling New Year.
Best, Frankie
© 2022 Geneva Woodruff
Comments and letters can be sent to Frankie at dearfrankiecolumn@gmail.com. The Fairhaven Neighborhood News publishes the Dear Frankie column. To receive a free online subscription, readers can email neighbnews@comcast.net, request their name be added to the email list or visit www.neighbnews.com to read the paper online or to download the latest issue.
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