Baby It’s Cold Outside
Winter is here. Yes, unfortunately as much as we hate to say it the cold days are upon us. Are you ready? Are your pets? Not only are there dangers to our pets during warm weather, but cold weather can also pose a risk as well. What can you do to make sure that your animals are safe and secure these upcoming winter months.
Bring your pets inside during cold weather. If you’re able, keep your animals inside. Sometimes temps drop so low that if left outside for too long your pet could freeze to death, become injured, disoriented or even killed by a wild animal hunting for food. If you do have to keep your pet or livestock outside, make sure they have a shelter to go to away from the elements, fresh water and of course food.
Protect their paws. Salt used to melt snow can often contain harmful chemicals. You want to make sure that you are using pet safe salt. Some companies such as Saltsox have developed cold weather boots for dogs. These boots protect your dogs paws from the cold all while maintaining their normal balance thus making winter walks fun! If you choose to go the no boot route, be sure to wipe your pets paws clean upon returning inside before your pet has a chance to lick their feet potentially causing their pads to become irritated.
Take care of their coat and skin/ play dress up! Be sure to keep bathing to a minimum in the winter to avoid itchy flakey skin. If you do need to administer a bath make sure to use moisturizing shampoo. If your pet has a thin short coat, consider buying them a sweater or a coat so that they can have some extra warmth and protection while outside. The options are endless when it comes to pet accessories nowadays! Come on! Have fun with it!
Antifreeze is a deadly poison. Be sure to wipe up any spills and store antifreeze out of the reach of any animal. Antifreeze has a sweet taste to it and any animal may want to dabble in the taste. Be sure to seek immediate veterinary attention if you believe your pet has ingested antifreeze!
Be prepared: Winter can bring blizzards and power outages. Prepare an emergency kit and include your pet in your plans. Have enough food, water and medicine (including any prescription medications as well as heartworm and flea/tick preventives) on hand to get through at least five days.
These are just some tips that you can do in order to keep your pet safe during the upcoming winter months. You can never be too safe or too sure when it comes to colder temperatures and the well being for the pets in your care.
Here are some helpful cold weather resources:
American Veterinary Medical Association – Cold Weather Animal Safety
Whole Dog Journal – Winter Warnings for your Dog
