An electric blanket is a great body warmer for you, but it poses a hazard to dogs, who may see them as something to chew on. Whether you are simply looking for a hedge against the chill of winter or you have a dog that needs help keeping warm, alternatives to an electric blanket or electric heating pad do exist.
Place your dog’s bed in an area free from drafts. For dog beds located on wood or tile floors, place a blanket on the floor before putting the bed down, or move the bed to a carpeted area. Add additional blankets to his bed for him to burrow under if he gets cold. Follow these recommendations regardless of what heat source you use, as they will help reduce the cold.
Purchase a microwaveable pet warmer for your dog’s bed. Created from a chew-resistant material, these packs are filled with a gel that, when microwaved, will retain heat for up to 12 hours. Follow the directions for cooking time. Test to make sure the warmer is not too hot. Place it under your dog’s bed cushion or on top but underneath a towel.
Fill an old sock with white rice. Tie a knot in the top of the sock to keep the rice from falling out. Place this in the microwave for a minute to warm, then into your dog’s bed for additional warmth.
Create a hot water bottle using a used plastic bottle. Fill it with hot tap water and cover it with a sock. Alternatively, you can use a traditional hot water bottle, but do not use boiling water.
Tips
For a larger dog, consider placing a few rice socks throughout the bed to distribute heat.
If your dog chews, rice socks are your best option, because the rice is safe if ingested. Replace broken or torn rice socks as needed.
Regular use of rice socks may cause a brown discoloration from heating the rice. You may also notice a cooked and nutty aroma after regular use. These are normal and not cause for concern.
Warnings
Always test the temperature of any heating aid before placing it in your dog’s bed to avoid burns. If it is too hot, set it out on the counter to cool slightly before adding it your dog’s bed.
Do not wash rice socks without first removing the rice.
Warnings
Always test the temperature of any heating aid before placing it in your dog’s bed to avoid burns. If it is too hot, set it out on the counter to cool slightly before adding it your dog’s bed.
Do not wash rice socks without first removing the rice.
Tips
For a larger dog, consider placing a few rice socks throughout the bed to distribute heat.
If your dog chews, rice socks are your best option, because the rice is safe if ingested. Replace broken or torn rice socks as needed.
Regular use of rice socks may cause a brown discoloration from heating the rice. You may also notice a cooked and nutty aroma after regular use. These are normal and not cause for concern.
Items You Will Need
- Microwaveable pet warmer
- Old sock
- Rice
- Plastic water bottle
References
Resources
Tips
- For a larger dog, consider placing a few rice socks throughout the bed to distribute heat.
- If your dog chews, rice socks are your best option, because the rice is safe if ingested. Replace broken or torn rice socks as needed.
- Regular use of rice socks may cause a brown discoloration from heating the rice. You may also notice a cooked and nutty aroma after regular use. These are normal and not cause for concern.
Warnings
- Always test the temperature of any heating aid before placing it in your dog’s bed to avoid burns. If it is too hot, set it out on the counter to cool slightly before adding it your dog’s bed.
- Do not wash rice socks without first removing the rice.
Writer Bio
Deborah Lundin is a professional writer with more than 20 years of experience in the medical field and as a small business owner. She studied medical science and sociology at Northern Illinois University. Her passions and interests include fitness, health, healthy eating, children and pets.