Keeping your Pet Safe and Healthy During the Winter Months
Back to Dean Vicker's Pet Tips
As tough as the bitter cold temperatures and frigid winds of winter are on us, they can be even tougher on pets. Just because your pet has a fur coat, it doesn’t necessarily mean they can endure the cold weather. Sure, some dogs love the snow and cold and are able to tolerate it better than other dogs. My Chow loves this time of year; the more snow the better for her; not so with my short -haired Ridgeback mix. Although it can be a struggle to coax the Chow inside, it is important to remember that dogs and cats are domesticated animals, and are as accustomed to the warm shelter of the indoors as we are.
So when the mercury drops, follow these guidelines to help protect your pets.
Ins and Outs of Winter
Letting dogs outside to run around and exercise is important to their health and happiness. During the cold winter months, though, you need to take some precautions. First, decide when cold is too cold. A good rule of thumb: Long-haired dogs can play outside for short periods of time when it's above 20°F; short-haired dogs, young pups, and elderly dogs should wait until the mercury rises to 40°F.
It is no secret that I do not support having indoor/outdoor cats. Cats will live longer and healthier lives if they remain safely confined in your home—regardless of the season. If your cat has been allowed outdoors before, winter is the perfect time to transition your furry friend to being an indoor-only cat.
Bundle Up
When your dog does venture outside for a walk or to play, keep him or her covered from head to paw. Invest in a doggie coat or sweater—especially for your short-haired pet. You may also want to consider covering sensitive paws with booties. Another tip: Keep your pet well-groomed—matted fur is not very efficient at insulating. And while your pets are outside, keep a close eye on them. If you see shivering, it's time to come in. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, animals are vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia in less than an hour. After you get back from your walk, wipe off your dogs feet. It’s not just good for keeping the house clean; it also wipes off the salt and chemicals that people use to melt snow and ice.
More Sustenance, Better Health
Dogs who spend time running around outside in the cold may need more food than usual. That's because they burn extra energy to keep warm. You should also always have fresh water available when they come in. If you put a dish outside, use a plastic one, instead of aluminum—animals' tongues can stick to cold metal—and make sure the water is clear of ice.
Watch for Hidden Dangers
Some of winter's less obvious hazards come not from the cold, but from what we do to fight it. The rock salt and chemicals we use to melt snow on pavement can burn and chafe padded paws. Wipe your dog's feet down with a warm, damp towel whenever he or she comes in from outside.
Antifreeze is another concern. It tastes sweet, but even a teaspoon is enough to kill your pets. If they get even a couple of licks, they need to get to the veterinarian immediately. Make sure to check regularly under your car and clean up any pools of the green liquid that may be forming. Better yet, look for pet-friendly antifreeze that isn't fatal if swallowed in small amounts and that contains a bittering agent.
Then there's the lure of a warm engine for a cold animal. Slap your car's hood before starting the car to make sure no shivering animals have sought refuge there.
Winter can be hard on our animal friends, and it takes more than love to keep them warm and safe. With these suggestions your pets will be welcoming the warm weather again in good health.
