Cold weather woes

img_5210So very sorry for the long absence.  Maxwell is thriving in most ways, but we continue to have our struggles.  We hit 7 months yesterday so I keep hoping for continued improvement in how he relates to the world.

One thing that is hard on us right now is the cold weather.  I, being a novice dog owner, didn’t know how painful snow and ice are on a pup’s paws.  Poor boy.  He has shoes and a coat, but hates both these cold weather options.  Not sure how any dog owner gets dog shoes on without a serious battle.  And the coat has velcro – unfortunately velcro sticks to his fur.  Buttons or an attachment is the recommendation for pet coats.   We did get a cute pic with his preppy coat on though so I will post it.

Additionally, salt is a serious concern.  I have been washing his paws which also doesn’t go over so well.  Salt can cause serious paw issues and apparently killed a poor pup here in our area (possibly ingesting the chemicals).   I also apply vaseline to his paws which he doesn’t seem to mind as much.

Last – we don’t have our long, fun walks right now.  We have freezing cold, dark walks where we look for an ounce of grass to pee on.  #2 is almost not happening (poor little boy).  And the 14 layers pre-work and post-work is no fun.  Poor guy has to wait around and always does so very patiently.

The kicker is that no one told me/ reminded me about cold weather woes when I adopted a pup.  I am sure if I had a snazzy dog door and a back yard with an awning, I may be posting about the joys of winter.  But I live in an urban high rise with lots of people, cars and salt.

So I hope to save another new parent from these novice, cold weather mistakes.

Wishing my two wonderful followers a happy new year and my resolution is to be a more consistent blogger.

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