Cold weather safety tips for pets — but in September? You bet. While we know it will be a bit before there’s a snap in the air, we feel good about helping you in being prepared if Lowe’s already has out Christmas trees. So, when the weather gets chilly, take a few minutes to prepare for your furry friends.
With help from the ASPCA, we’ve pulled together tips to help you care for your pets in cold weather.
Dogs
- Keep you dog on their leash at all time. Also, be sure there are tags on their collar. Dogs have a more difficult time tracking scents in the winter time, especially in snow. They can get lost more easily if they do make it off leash.
- Make sure to wipe your pet’s paws when they come indoors after walking in snow, rain, or ice. If they lick their paws, they could potentially ingest harmful chemicals such as antifreeze and salts used on roads. Bonus, remember to wipe their belly, too.
- Keep your dog appropriately covering during the winter months. For example, purchase a dog sweater or jacket. In addition, do not shave your long haired dog during the winter. They rely on their coat to keep them warm. If you have a short haired dog, they will rely on you to keep them warm.
- Limit bathing frequency in winter months. It can remove essential oils needed to keep their skin from getting dry and flaky. If you do bathe your dog, be sure to dry them completely before going for a walk. Be mindful not to let them walk outside in the cold with a wet coat.
- For dogs who are active outdoors during winter months, pet owners should be sure to increase their food supply, particularly their protein consumption. Check with your vet for the best way to do this for your particular pet.
Cats
- Keep your cat indoors during cold weather, as it is very possible he or she could freeze if left outside.
- Another cold-related problem for cats is frostbite. If your cat is accidentally left outside or becomes lost during a heavy snowstorm, the result could be frostbite. If this happens, remember that frozen tissue should never be rubbed. This causes additional tissue damage. Prompt veterinary treatment is needed.
- In the winter time, outdoor cats often sleep under the hoods of cars. So, before you start your car, be sure to make a loud noise near the hood, to give a cat the opportunity to escape.
All Pets – Cold Weather Safety Tips for Pets
- Consider keeping your home humidified. The change in air from inside to outside can cause dry, flaky and itchy skin.
- Provide a warm, safe place for your pets to sleep in the winter time such as a soft dog bed and blanket.
- Don’t ever leave your pet in your car alone in cold weather. During the winter months, your car traps in cold air and pets could potentially freeze to death.
- Some pets are sensitive to cold weather because of their age, breed, or illnesses they may have. During the cold months, limit your sensitive pet’s exposure to the weather by keeping them indoors with the exception of potty breaks.
For More Information
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.
If you have questions about this topic or general questions about pet care, you can contact Kara Jenkins, Owner of TLC House & Pet Sitting. We are also available by email at info@tlcpetsitter.com. View more of our articles on pets here.