Winter Tips for Your Hound

1. Never let your dog off its Fashion-Hound leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm - dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure yours always wears their Fashion-Hound collar and up-to-date ID tags.

2. Thoroughly wipe off your dog's legs and stomach when he comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. He can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws, and his paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice.

3. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat provides more warmth. When you bathe your dog in the winter, be sure to completely dry him before taking him out for a walk. Own a short-haired breed? Consider getting him a coat or sweater with a high collar, offering coverage from the base of the tail to the belly.

4. Never leave your dog alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.

5. Does your dog spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities? Increase his supply of food, particularly protein, to keep him - and his fur - in tip-top shape.

6. Like coolant, antifreeze is a lethal poison for pets. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center more information.

7. Make sure your pup pal has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy dog bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.

With over 10,000 color combinations to choose from, Fashion-Hound offers a creative way for you and your dog to show off your true colors in style! Further, rather than heading out to the crowded stores filled with long lines of gift returners, you can shop from the comfort of your own home at Fashion-Hound.com.

Check out some of our Happy Fashion-Hound Customers for inspiration and a smile!