Keeping Your Pets Safe In The Winter

Since, like many others, I am snowed in this morning, it only seems appropriate that today’s topic should be keeping your pets safe in winter weather. Here are some important tips:

1. Keep your dog on a leash when out for walks during a snowstorm. Your dog could become disoriented or lost very easily. Beware of bodies of water where there may be thin ice. Photo credit - www.rainydaymagazine.com

2. Watch for signs of frostbite, especially on the paws, ears and tails. Frostbite can occur in as little as 20 minutes in frigid temperatures. Signs include blisters and red, pale or black skin. 
Photo credit - www.yorkprofessionalpetsitting.wordpress.com

3. If you groom your pet, leave fur longer during winter months. Photo Credit - www.yourpals.net

4. Watch out for puddles outdoors and make sure pets do not drink from them. These may be antifreeze which is toxic to pets. Photo credit - www.catster.com

5. Salt on roads and sidewalks may harm paw pads. Wipe paws after walks or consider using booties if your dog will tolerate them. Also wipe the underside of your pet to prevent ingestion of salt. Photo credit - www.unleashedhikes.com

6. Monitor pets around fireplaces, wood burning stoves, etc. when indoors. Photo credit - www.dogloverstoday.com

7. Outdoor cats may hide under car hoods or in wheel wells when it is cold out. Tap on the hood before starting your car. Photo credit - www.catster.com

8.  Never leave pets in cars for extended periods of time. A cold car is like a refrigerator. Photo credit  - www.petalive.co.za

9. You may need to adjust food quantities in the winter. Indoor pets may require less food while pets that get more outdoor exercise may need more food. Photo credit - www.the-dog-dish.com

10. Ideally, pets should be kept inside in frigid temperatures. If you are cold, they are cold. Know and obey your state laws. Photo credit - www.apartmenttherapy.com

11. If your dog must be kept outdoors provide shelter that is insulated, draft-free, off the ground and filled with bedding such as hay or straw. Make sure food and water supplies do not freeze. Photo credit - www.dakotasden.net

Please stay safe this winter and please remember that your pets are depending on you to keep them safe too!