Brrrrr....Got Woof?

Oh let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.
Not unlike the tire service centres here in Vancouver that receive a rush of business when it snows, I get several people coming in with some poor sopping pooch that has a nice crust of snow on top looking for a wee bit of warmth. This is usually facilitated through a nice waterproof coat with some insulation on the underside.
Often people come into the store and if unfamiliar with modern pet products they will pick up a set of boots and just laugh at the idea.
I try not to take it personally but I do carefully explain that besides the obvious oddity of boots for a dog, they have merit in protection from "salt burn" to paws and compacted snow in the underpads that can be very painful for their dog. Most people will consider it and realize there was an assumption that was just surface and they learned something.
Sometimes if the people are diehard hikers or snowmobilers we offer them the option of one of our insulated sets of boots (for Fido) as it can protect and the pooch can run all day without sitting in the truck.

Now, I can be a great salesman but I have to say that if it is just for the esthetic of things I try to steer people away from getting boots if its just for the cute factor. Most people are pretty appreciative that we're not rabid sales people here.
While both a coat and boots can protect Fido from the elements it does take a good few minutes to get used to the boots. Coats are a snap usually and a welcome addition for the dog.
Boots take some getting used to...usually there is a stiff legged walk for about 5 minutes BUT going out in the snow a pooch will quickly see how much warmer it can be!

A while ago a lady wanted to buy a set for her dog that lives with her in Palm Springs.
I asked her "What the heck you need a set of boots for a dog in the desert for?" and she said "umm did you ever walk across blacktop asphalt in 100 degree heat"?
"Ok......gotcha... point taken..." I replied.."Cash or charge?"
She was cute and funny!
Never assume is the rule.....I'm learning all the time too.