Keep Your Paws Warm

With today’s arctic freeze temperatures, George Herbert’s words, “Every mile is two in winter,” is a chilling reminder to keep your paws warm. If you need to be outside, do not leave home without the appropriate layers. No need to be concerned about your plants, though. A decent covering of snow does insulate much of our vegetation. So thank goodness for the current snowfall. An open winter (i.e., no snow cover) in these frigid January conditions can raise havoc with certain plant materials that are marginally hardy or recently planted and not fully established. So when you look for blessings in disguise, think snow.

Yes, we could live without these below zero temperatures. Even hardy New Englanders dislike when the mercury drops off the dial but there is always a bright spot. Dig out the snow shoes or the cross country skis and go for a shuffle. This winter scenery is clear, brisk and absolutely spectacular. The conditions don’t get any better as long as you can handle the elements. Just remember to protect the paws and check out the winter landscape. Start slow and enjoy the ride because “every mile is two in winter.”

Photo of Ben's Big Dog Paws by Greg Bilowz