Weighted Blankets For Dogs
Are Weight Blankets Safe For Dogs
In my opinion, NO.
Can a Weighted Blanket Help Your Dog with Stress?
Weighted blankets have become popular in recent years as a tool for helping people with anxiety and stress. More and more people are considering use of a weighted blanket for use with dogs who struggle with stress. A weighted blanket for dogs may provide a sense of comfort and security, helping to reduce anxiety and improve overall well-being. In this article, we'll dive into the benefits and risks of using a weighted blanket for dogs with stress.
How Do Weighted Blankets Work?
A weighted blanket is typically filled with weighted materials such as beads or plastic pellets and range in weight depending on the size of the dog. The added weight of the blanket provides gentle pressure on the dog's body, which may help to relax the nervous system and reduce anxiety.
Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket for Dogs
We tend to assume a weighted blanket for dogs may provide several benefits, such as:
Reduced anxiety and stress
Increased feelings of comfort and security
Eased symptoms of anxiety anxiety
Potential Risks of Using a Weighted Blanket for Dogs
While a weighted blanket for dogs can be a helpful tool for managing stress and anxiety, there are risks and considerations to keep in mind. Some potential risks associated with using a weighted blanket for dogs include:
Overheating: The added weight of the blanket may cause your dog to overheat, especially in warm weather. It's important to monitor your dog's body temperature and remove the blanket if they show signs of overheating.
Ingestion Hazard: Fabrics can of ourse be ingestion hazards, but now your dog will have access to magnets, plastics or other bead materials should they become stressed enough to begin chewing the blanket.
Incorrect weight or size: A blanket that is too heavy or too big may cause discomfort or injury to your dog. Be sure to choose a blanket that is appropriately sized for your dog's weight and adjust the weight as needed.
Not suitable for all dogs: While many dogs may benefit from the use of a weighted blanket, it's not a one-size-fits-all solution. Dogs with certain health conditions or mobility issues may not be able to tolerate the added weight of the blanket.
Supervise at all times when in use. Never leave them accessible to your dog and depart the house. They would NOT be appropriate for use for a dog with Separation Anxiety. Or for a senior dog or one with health issues. Your dog must be able to remove the blanket and get out from under it completely.
Last summer my own senior dachshund got tangled up in the top sheet. Yes, a light weight top sheet in the summer. He has limited moibility, but yet he managed to turn around enough and pull the sheet around his head that he began to struggle to breathe. I usually a pretty sound sleeper, so honestly, I am lucky, extremely lucky that heard him panting. He was in significant distress and overheated. With a cool bath, essential oils for respiratory and cooling effects, he came to. But it was frightening.
I tell you this, because something so innocuous as a sheet can become a risk! Image what a weighted blanket may do if your dog becomes distressed and tangled — senior or not.