Hello, this is my 1st post. I'm a newbie here. I recently took in my Mom's 8 year old german shepherd. He has some problems with muscle atrophy in his hips because he had been confined to a small yard. This of course only exacerbates any arthritic issues that may be starting. I'm on 2.5 acres, and he's an outside dog, his activity is already greatly increased, as he has room to roam and run here. My concern is keeping him warm this winter. He has always been outside, and doesn't want to come inside. I'd like to provide him some warmth on the porch for winter nights.
I am in inland So Cal. In my little valley, it's not unusual for nighttime temps to drop into the low 20's. I would just hang a heat lamp over his bed, or put a reostat mat under him, but I am 100% off grid, and I am wondering what is the best way to provide some warmth with the least power draw on my batteries? I know there are "low voltage" options available, but I thought someone in here might have a good idea. Oh, and I did try the search engine here. Thank you.