Many dogs love to play in the snow but, as pet owners, we need to be aware of and protect our cats and dogs from winter hazards. Below are some important tips to keep in mind this winter to keep your furry family members safe.
Protect Your Pet From the Cold
Generally, if it is too cold for you, it is also too cold for your pets. Owners often mistakenly think that a pet's fur will keep them warm, but they are at the same risk of exposure as humans. Here are some tips and precautions you can take to keep your pet from getting too cold.
- Only allow your pet out for short periods during cold weather.
- Dress your pet for winter with warm sweaters and coats.
- Make sure your home is heated to a comfortable temperature for your pet.
- Minimize bathing during the winter. Excess bathing washes away the natural oils that help keep your pet warm.
- Be mindful of trimming your pet. Trim only fuzzy feet and hair that is long enough to drag and pick up snow during your winter walks.
- Consider a heated pet bed to keep your pet cozy.
Protect Those Paws
A pet's paws are at particular risk in the winter. They are susceptible to frostbite, cuts from ice, rock salt, or crusty snow. In addition, anti-freeze and de-icing chemicals used in winter present a health hazard when paws are exposed to them. To prevent these problems, try these preventative measures.
- Consider pet booties for winter walks.
- Another protective measure is coating paws with petroleum jelly or paw protection wax before walks.
- Check paws often to make sure they are not starting to feel cold.
- Wipe off and dry paws immediately and thoroughly when you go back inside.
Keep Dogs on Leash
In the winter, it is extra important to keep your dog on a leash at all times when they are outside your yard. Doing so allows you to avoid several winter hazards, including:
- Getting Lost
Heavy snowfall can make it easy for a dog to lose their scent trail. This can result in their not being able to find their way back to you. - Anti-freeze and De-icing Chemicals
By keeping your dog on their leash, you will be able to monitor them better and prevent ingestion of dangerous winter chemicals. - Frozen Ponds
Dogs should never be allowed onto frozen rivers, lakes, or ponds! Keeping them on-leash will allow you to keep them out of these potentially highly dangerous situations.
Don't Forget the Kitties
Cats are generally very happy to stay warm inside during the winter, so make sure you allow them to do so. If you do have outdoor or feral cats in your neighborhood, please take the following precautions:
- Honk Before You Start Your Car
If your car is parked outside, outdoor cats may be attracted to its warm engine and may take refuge there. Starting your engine while they are there can seriously injure or kill them. To prevent this, honk your horn to frighten them away before you start your car. - Provide Shelter for Feral Cats
A disposable styrofoam cooler with a hole cut in one end will allow an outdoor cat to take shelter against the winter elements and could save a life.
Feed a Bit More
Pets usually burn a few more calories during the winter to maintain their body temperature in the colder weather. To prevent them from losing body fat, which also helps to keep them warm, it is important to up their food intake slightly to make sure they maintain a healthy weight.
If you have any questions about keeping your pet safe and warm, feel free to contact our office.
336-644-1522