I have a winter coat. No, not that one. Daddy bought this one at a horse store. 

Are there small horses I didn’t know about? 

I hate that coat because it makes me look fat. And I don’t think it makes me look like a horse either.

Gracie Ann Gurley here. Welcome to Tale #8. Everyone here is all tense about a big storm, so we probably should talk about it. 

Daddy filled up the gas in our cars today and let me go with him. Momma is now an expert on frozen pipes, whatever those are. Daddy rolled his eyes.

I love the snow and cold but I think what’s about to happen might be dangerous for pets.

So, I’ve got some advice for pet parents.

Coats don’t fix all the bad things that happen from cold weather. My horse coat is warm but it doesn’t help my paws. Ice and snow (and the white stuff Daddy throws down) don’t feel good on paws. 

I’m a sturdy dog, but not all pets are. The cold makes it hard for older dogs to get around. For little dogs, the cold takes over really fast. Like in minutes. Our little neighbor dog is really skinny and I worry about him being outside. I think his Daddy forgets about him sometimes.

I love long walks as you know, but not this weekend. Daddy says Ellie and I can go down the street and play but just for a couple of minutes. That’s ok because my nose doesn’t work as well when it’s cold. It’s just not as fun.

And most important: be understanding with us. If we hesitate or run away when you want us to go outside, know that we’re trying to tell you something. 

And you be smart, too. It’s fun when Daddy shovels snow, but he’s pretty old and that might not be good for him when it’s so cold. I’m about 30 years old in human years and Daddy is way older than that. 

More from Gracie’s Tales

Tale #2: Why we lose our minds when you come home
Spins, tail wags, and the happiest moment of a dog’s day.
Read this Tale →

Tale #5: Why some dogs never feel full
Dog hunger, wolf instincts, and why “just one more bite” is a way of life.
Read this Tale →