Cold Weather Safety Tips
Oh the weather outside is frightful…… isn’t
that how the song goes?? Folks, it’s getting cold out there
– time to bundle up! And this includes your pets! Today, I’d
like to share some foul-weather protection tips for your pets. So
cozy on up to that fire and read on….
A dog is the pet most likely to be outside no matter what the weather.
Many dogs do not mind inclement weather however it is up to you
to keep them safe. It is fine to bring Fido on your errands –
as long as you are driving from place to place and your heat is
on to keep some warmth in the car. Common sense prevails though,
and you may not want to keep a shorthaired dog with no undercoat
in a car for more than 20 – 30 minutes without some heat.
Dogs with a thicker, heavier coat will be fine for longer amounts
of time. If your dog is older and/or has joint problems or arthritis
you may just want to leave him home, all snuggles up on his bed.
Prolonged exposure to cold can make these problems worse.
If there is snow or ice on the ground, try to protect your dog’s
paws. There are some booties on the market that work very well.
If your dog will not tolerate a boot on his foot, try some wax.
There are many on the market made with natural ingredients –
be sure to get one that is non-toxic! In addition, if your dog has
been outside and there is salt on the pavement, wash off their pads
to protect them from irritation. Consider purchasing an ice removal
product that it safe for pets for your own home.
If you have your dog outside playing (which you should –
all dogs need fresh air and exercise no matter what the day is like!!)
keep in mind that he will get thirsty. As always, be sure to have
plenty of fresh water available!
Speaking of water, let’s address some other pet’s winter
needs. Got Bunnies?? They do just fine in this cold weather –
but the water in the cage may freeze – please keep an eye
on this and change the water twice a day to ensure that Floppy has
fresh water when he needs it.
Reptiles don’t handle the cold too well. Be sure to keep
your room temp at at least 65 degrees. And be sure, too, to have
back up heat lamps – it is very important in the winter months
to keep these guys warm!
Cats and Ferrets – try to keep them inside. Provide them
with a warm soft place to sleep.
Just a few more things you can do to help your pet get through
to summer in the most comfortable, healthy way – be sure to
check under your car before driving away – many animals that
are outside will crawl up under the hood for warmth. Be sure to
keep your pet in a leash if outside during a snowstorm – it
is not easy for them to pick up a scent in snow and they may become
lost. Keep a tag on your pet with his name, your name and phone
numbers! And you may want to increase your pet’s food just
a bit – more protein will help him stay warm. And lastly,
keep antifreeze stored safely!! . Antifreeze is very sweet and attractive
to pets, but also very toxic. Like the ice-melt, consider purchasing
antifreeze that is safe for pets for your own home
Well, that’s it for me – I am going to go enjoy my
fireplace and coca. Happy New Year to you and your families!! Be
safe and enjoy the winter!
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