Pet Parent Preparedness: Blizzard Edition

As a dog parent, when you hear that a winter storm is coming, you have to think about if you are prepared. There are certain supplies that you need to get for your pooch. As soon as you hear that a blizzard is approaching, you should check your closets to make sure you have some essential supplies.

When getting winter blackout supplies for your pet, you will need similar items to what you need for yourself. Extra food and warm clothing are essential. Think of anything that your pet might need in a week. Know that you might not be able to get to the store for these items, so go ahead and stock up while you can.

Food Supply

The last thing you want during a winter storm is a hungry pup on your hands. You need to have plenty of food reserves in case there are road closures. Having a mixture of wet and dry food can be helpful. For example, this dry food formula from The Honest Kitchen can be fed to dogs of all ages. This is especially helpful if you have multiple dogs in your home.

During the blizzard, you will likely be stuck inside with little to do. This can be a great time to practice some training exercises with your dog. These Nutro crunchy dog treats might be the motivation your pet needs to learn a new trick.

First Aid Supplies

While you hope that you never need to use it, a first aid kit is something that every pet parent should have. You never know when an accident might happen. If your dog suffers a minor injury during a blizzard, you will have no way to get him or her to your vet's office.

Having a kit that includes antibacterial ointment like Sulfodene will give you peace of mind that you can take care of your pet's minor cuts and scrapes. One of the greatest dangers after a small injury is an infection, so make sure that you have resources to fight that threat. Also, be sure to have plenty of bandages to keep wounds clean .

Coats

Your pet will likely have to go outside to use the bathroom at some point during the storm, so you need to have winter clothing for him or her to wear. A coat is an essential blizzard accessory for your furry friend. This fleece one made by Highline helps keep your dog's core warm.

When ordering a coat for your pet, make sure that you measure him or her correctly. The last thing that you need is an ill-fitting coat for your pet when it is snowing outside! If you have time before the storm hits, try the coat on your pet to make sure it fits well. Also, this will help him or her get used to wearing it.

Shoes

Pets who are not used to the cold weather may not like walking in the snow. In this situation, dog boots are the perfect solution. These fleece-lined ones from Guardian Gear help keep your pup's toes warm no matter the weather. If you think your dog will be hesitant wearing shoes, let him or her try them on for a while inside the house.

When freezing temps strike, there is often ice accumulation on steps and sidewalks. Dogs may slip and injure themselves if they are not wearing proper footwear. Choose dog boots or shoes that have non-slip soles. This will help your pet feel more secure when walking around outside, and you will not be as concerned about him or her slipping.

Scarves

When your pet has to go out in the freezing temps, keeping his or her core warm is of the utmost importance. You also want to make sure that the face and ears are warm as well. An adorable infinity scarf like this one from Fabdog might be just the accessory that your stylish puppy needs.

Lately, dog snoods have been rising in popularity. It is essentially a winter accessory that doubles as a hat and a scarf. Some, like this one from Polaris , have drawstrings to keep them secured around your pup's face. With a coat and a snood on, your pup is sure to be able to weather the winter elements.

Bedding

When the temps start dropping, there is always a chance that there will be power outages. Sometimes, the power lines simply cannot handle all the ice and snow buildup. If you find yourself in this situation, you want to make sure that you and your dog are as comfortable as possible.

Ideally, you will have alternative sources of heat in your home that does not use electricity. At the least, you must make sure that you have warm bedding for your pet. This adorable slipper dog bed by Dogo has a warm cover that your pet can snuggle under. If you are using a gas heater or fireplace, make sure that your pup is close enough to stay warm, but keep them far enough away for safety.

While hearing that a winter storm is headed your way can sound scary, you can do your part to get prepared. With all your time at home, just think of all the extra snuggles you can get from your furry friend. Make a list of all the blizzard essentials that you need, and keep your furry best friend safe!