Winter in Columbus, Ohio requires specific protocols to ensure the safety and comfort of the pets in our care. This guide outlines our comprehensive approach to winter walks, from preparation to execution.
Our Winter Walk Philosophy
At the heart of our winter-walks service is a simple, unwavering principle: the pet’s well-being comes first. We blend this commitment with clear client instructions and trust in your professional judgment to make every outing safe and positive.
What Guides Our Decisions:
- Start with the Profile: The client’s “Winter Dog Walk Preferences” checklist in the pet profile is your primary guide and should always be followed first.
- Comfort Over Checklist: A completed walk is not a success if the pet is uncomfortable. It is always acceptable to modify a walk (as long as it’s communicated proactively) for the pet’s safety and comfort, opting for indoor play instead.
- Trust Your Instincts: You are on the front line. We trust your judgment to assess the pet’s comfort in real-time and act in their best interest.
- Prevention is Key: A safe walk is built on preparation. This means using protective gear for the pet, avoiding hazards like salt and ice, and staying vigilant to prevent the pet from ingesting harmful chemicals.
- Your Safety Matters Too: You cannot provide excellent care if you are uncomfortable or unsafe. Dressing appropriately for the weather is a non-negotiable part of the job.
By following these guiding principles, you ensure every pet receives the compassionate and responsible care they deserve, no matter the forecast.
The Three-Phase Winter Walk Protocol
Phase 1: Pre-Walk Preparation
Success begins before you leave the house.
- Consult the Pet Profile: Your first and most critical step is to locate the “Winter Dog Walk Preferences” checklist. This is your primary guide. Here’s how to find it:
- Log in to your Precise Petcare account.
- Locate the specific pet profile using the search feature.
- Click the down arrow to the right of the pet’s name to expand the full profile.
- Find the section titled “Special things to know about me”.
- Within this section, look for the header “Winter Dog Walk Preferences” and review all checked items. If this section is blank, check the general profile notes for any winter walk information.
- Assess Conditions: Check the current temperature and, most importantly, the wind chill, as this is the “feels like” temperature that affects the pet.
- Gear Up the Pet: Use any client-provided winter attire (coats, jackets, booties, paw balm) as specified in the preferences.
- If No Gear is Available: If a client has not provided winter garments, you are encouraged to kindly inform them in your post-service journal report that items like a coat or booties would be a worthy investment for their pet’s comfort and safety. Your proactive expertise shows you have their pup’s best interest at heart.
- Gear Up Yourself: Dress in layers, wear waterproof boots, and don’t forget gloves and a hat. Your comfort is essential to providing excellent care.
Phase 2: Execution & Monitoring
This phase is active and dynamic. Your focus is on the pet’s well-being.
- Continuous Observation: Monitor for signs of discomfort: shivering, lifting paws, whining, hunched posture, or reluctance to walk.
- Know When to Modify: If the pet shows clear distress, end the walk and return to warmth immediately, ensuring you’re communicating what’s happening with the team/client.
Phase 3: Post-Walk Care
The service isn’t over until the pet is settled, their paws are cared for, and the client is fully informed.
- The Essential Paw Check: A thorough paw inspection and cleaning is mandatory after every winter walk.
- Gather Supplies: Use a towel (client-provided or one you’ve brought).
- Wipe Down: Lay the towel on the dog’s back and wipe your way down to the underbelly, legs, and finally the paws.
- Inspect Paws: When checking paws, lift them up and back. For front paws, gently bend at the wrist. For back paws, lift the leg back and up. This method ensures cooperation and minimizes discomfort.
- Check for Hazards:
- Trapped Debris: Remove any salt, ice, or snowballs stuck between paw pads. Wipe thoroughly.
- Damage: Look for dryness, cracking, bleeding, or discoloration. If found, inform the client and inquire about paw balm (or Vaseline) for future visits.
- Swelling: Note any swelling or limping. Soak the paw in cool water and contact a vet if it’s an emergency.
- Grooming: Note if long fur or nails are trapping debris. Suggest a grooming appointment to the client. Never attempt to cut the fur or nails yourself.
- Respect the Pet: If the pet profile notes that the dog dislikes its paws being touched, do not force it. Instead, be extra vigilant during the walk to avoid hazards.
- Transparent Communication: In your final journal report, provide a detailed, honest account of the walk and/or the alternative indoor activities. Always include a clear, happy photo and note any paw concerns you observed or addressed.
Key Operational Guidelines
Making the Call: Temperature and Breed Factors
While every dog is an individual, these guidelines inform your decisions.
- Above 32°F (0°C): Generally safe for most walks. Proceed as normal.
- Below 32°F (0°C): Use caution. Consider a shorter “potty break” followed by indoor play.
- Breed Considerations:
- Cold-Tolerant Breeds: Larger, fluffy breeds like Siberian Huskies, German Shepherds, and Newfoundlands are generally more accustomed to cold but should still be monitored.
- Cold-Sensitive Dogs: Small breeds, short-haired breeds (e.g., Greyhounds, Chihuahuas), puppies, and seniors need extra protection and shorter outdoor time.
Handling a Reluctant Walker
When a dog is hesitant to walk, follow this escalation path:
- Ensure Preparation: Confirm the dog is wearing any provided winter gear.
- Employ Encouragement:
- Get to their eye level and use a cheerful, encouraging voice.
- Use known commands and offer praise for any progress.
- Follow their lead if they pull in a safe direction.
- Decide to Modify: If the dog remains uncomfortable, you are empowered to modify the service. Maximize indoor playtime for stimulation and energy release.
- Communicate Immediately: As soon as you decide to modify (or even beforehand), communicate.
- Contact the Team via Slack.
- Inform the Client promptly, explaining your efforts and the alternative activities provided.
Identifying and Responding to Cold-Related Distress
Signs of Discomfort:
- Shaking/shivering
- Hunched posture with tucked tail
- Whining/barking
- Behavior changes (anxious/uncomfortable)
- Reluctant to continue walking (wanting to turn around and go back home!)
- Seeking places for shelter
- Lifting paw(s) off ground
Action for Discomfort:
- Seek Warmth Immediately: Get the dog indoors to a warm, sheltered location as quickly as possible.
- Provide Gentle Warmth: If needed, apply a warm (not hot) compress or soak affected areas in lukewarm water. Never use hot water, heating pads, or direct high heat, as this can cause burns or shock.
- Monitor and Escalate: Once inside, monitor the dog closely. If they do not show clear signs of warming up and improving, trust your instincts and contact a local vet or MedVet for immediate guidance. Simultaneously, update the team in Slack.
- Communicate with the Client: Provide a transparent update to the pet parent in your journal report, detailing what you observed and the actions you took.
Signs of Frostbite/Frostnip (paws, ears, tail):
- Discolored skin – the skin could be gray, pale, blue or purple.
- Skin that is cold to the touch and/or very fragile
- Pain or whining (pup could be lifting paws up)
- Swelling and/or blistering
- Blackened skin (in extreme cases)
Action for Suspected Frostbite:
- Get to Shelter Immediately: Bring the dog indoors to a warm, safe location without delay.
- Warm Gently: Carefully apply a warm water compress or soak the affected area in a bowl of lukewarm water. CRITICAL: Do not use hot water, heating pads, or direct high heat, as this can cause burns and severe tissue damage.
- Contact Emergency Vet Immediately: Call a local emergency vet or MedVet right away. Describe all symptoms in detail and follow their instructions. Please also alert the team in Slack.
- Notify the Client Promptly: Provide a clear and immediate update to the client, outlining the situation and the steps you are taking.
Walking in Snow, Ice, and Hail
It is generally safe to walk dogs in snowy or icy conditions, provided the pet appears comfortable. However, certain conditions warrant extreme caution and may require service modification.
High-Risk Conditions:
Exercise extreme caution and be prepared to cut a walk short in these conditions:
- Deep Snow: Unshoveled snow over 4 inches deep
- Ice Patches: Thick or hard-to-see ice on sidewalks
- Active Precipitation: Heavy sleet, freezing rain, or hail
- Heavy Salt: Paths covered in salt that cannot be avoided
Protocol for Inclement Weather Walks:
- Test the walk briefly, but prioritize returning indoors (and communication with pet parent) if the pet appears uncomfortable or the conditions feel unsafe.
- Actively steer clear of road salt, ice, and snow as much as possible.
- Always perform a thorough paw check upon returning, as outlined above.
Managing Services Without Winter Preferences Specified
If a client hasn’t specified winter walk instructions in their pet profile, use this support article and your best judgment to determine the appropriate course of action. Key factors to consider include:
- The current temperature and wind chill
- The dog’s breed, size, and coat type
- The dog’s observed comfort level
When in doubt, ask the team in Slack for collective advice and support.
Winter Car Care & Safety
Your vehicle is essential for providing reliable service through Columbus, Ohio’s winter months. Taking these proactive steps ensures both your safety and our clients’ peace of mind.
Pre-Winter Professional Check-Up
Before temperatures consistently drop below freezing, schedule a comprehensive inspection with a trusted mechanic. Here’s what to have checked:
Critical Systems Inspection
- Lights 🔦 – Test all headlights, taillights, turn signals, and dashboard lights. Replace any dim or foggy bulbs to ensure optimal visibility during shorter winter days.
- Coolant (Antifreeze) ❄️ – Verify proper levels and the correct 50/50 coolant-water mix to protect your engine from freezing.
- Oil – Switch to winter-appropriate oil viscosity for better cold-weather performance.
- Heater & Defroster – Ensure both systems work efficiently to keep you comfortable and maintain visibility.
- Tires – Check pressure and tread depth. Consider winter tires for superior snow and ice traction.
- Battery 🔋 – Test battery health, as cold weather reduces power output while demand increases.
- Wiper System – Install winter-grade blades and fill reservoir with freeze-resistant washer fluid.
Seasonal Driving Practices
Maintain these essential habits throughout winter:
- Fuel Management ⛽ – Keep your tank at least half full to prevent fuel line freeze
- Tire Maintenance – Check pressure weekly as cold temperatures cause air contraction
- Emergency Preparedness – Always carry a winter survival kit in your vehicle
- Time Management 🗓️ – Allow extra travel time between services
- Safe Driving – Never rush – your safety is our priority
Your reliable transportation ensures we can deliver consistent, quality care to every pet, regardless of weather conditions.
Personal Safety & Preparedness
Your comfort and safety are just as important as the pets’! If you’re not properly prepared, it can lead to cutting services short, which directly impacts our client’s experience.
Essential Winter Dress Code
Layer up from head to toe! 🥶
- Head/Neck: Hat 🧢, scarf 🧣, hood
- Torso: Long sleeve + sweater/hoodie + winter coat 🧥
- Hands: Gloves/mittens 🧤 + hand warmers
- Legs: Thermal layers + thick pants 👖
- Feet: Wool socks 🧦 + waterproof boots 🥾 (pack extras!)
Your Winter Go-Bag
Keep these essentials with you:
- Tissues & lip balm
- Water bottle & snacks
- Towel (for paws and you!)
- Extra clothes & socks
- Hot beverage thermos ☕️
Smart Winter Habits
- Plan extra commute time between services 🚗
- Never rush on icy surfaces 🧊
- Move carefully with excited pups
- Keep your vehicle winter-ready
- Stay warm out there! Your preparedness ensures every pet gets the full, quality care they deserve.
