London is bracing itself for a snowy spectacle this week, but pet owners beware! A seasoned vet, Dr. Anna Foreman, has spilled the tea on why your furry pals don’t need those trendy winter boots, even when the mercury drops to freezing lows.

In the midst of the snowy forecast, the burning question on every dog owner’s mind is whether it’s too cold for their canine companions. Dr. Foreman has come to the rescue with expert advice, debunking the myth that dogs require footwear to keep their paws warm in chilly weather.

“Owners, forget about those outdoor boots! Just wash and dry your dog’s paws after a stroll, and you’re good to go,” insists Dr. Foreman, dismissing the unnecessary fuss around canine footwear. According to her, these boots can be more trouble than they’re worth, causing distress to our four-legged friends who aren’t exactly fans of human-like shoes.

Highlighting the natural protection already in place, Dr. Foreman points out that a dog’s paws have built-in “shoes” in the form of hard, leathery pads. These protective pads safeguard against injuries from sharp objects, but she warns of the importance of checking them thoroughly if a dog becomes suddenly lame.

While the vet acknowledges certain conditions where boots may be considered, such as slipping on wet surfaces or developing chapped paws, she advocates for a more stylish solution—raincoats! For dogs without an ‘innately waterproof coat,’ Dr. Foreman swears by raincoats to keep them dry and fabulous during winter walks.

To ensure your pup stays safe and comfy during the snowy escapades, Dr. Foreman suggests checking the deeper layers of fur and skin for warmth after exposure to rain. And for those furballs with naturally warm and waterproof coats, piling on layers may do more harm than good.

Dog owners, take notes! Enhance your dog’s visibility with high-visibility collars, leads, accessories, harnesses, or coats in low-visibility conditions. For additional tips on keeping your pooch safe in snowy weather, check out our exclusive guide.

As the Arctic blast descends, bringing freezing temperatures as low as -15°C, multiple snow and ice warnings are in place. Stay tuned for the latest updates and tips to keep your canine companions safe and snug during the chilly spell.