Winter means fun snow sports, hot chocolate and beautiful snow-covered landscapes. But for your beloved pet, it could mean accidentally getting frostbite, hypothermia and many other health dangers. Be sure to keep the following winter safety tips for pets in check so your animal companion is not put at risk.
Have Your Pet Stay Indoors
The easiest way to protect your pets from winter dangers is to have them stay inside your home. Active and fit dogs can be taken out for a brief walk to keep them energized and happy, but make sure they stay indoors during the rest of the day.
It’s never wise to leave any pet outside for long when the temperature dips. Always keep in mind that pets are sensitive to cold weather, and can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite. Never let them off their leash if they absolutely must go outside.
Give Plenty of Food and Water
Although it seems like your pets don’t need as much food and water because they’re not sweating, the opposite is true. The truth is, they need more food because their body generates a lot of heat and energy to keep themselves warm. Make it a habit to check their water dish to ensure fresh (and not frozen) water is readily available. It’s safer to use bowls made of plastic as your pet’s tongues can easily stick to metal.
Don’t Shave Your Dog’s Fur
A thicker and longer coat gives more warmth and protection during the cold weather. If your dog has short hair, consider getting him or her a coat or a sweater that they can wear even indoors when the weather really gets cold. For pets who need to be outside, consider getting them pet-sized booties to wear that protect them further from the cold.
Avoid Salt and Antifreeze
When you take your dog out for a walk, be sure to wipe their paws and stomach right after to remove salt, antifreeze and other chemicals that are used in melting snow and ice on the street. Antifreeze, which attracts animals with its sweet taste, is actually poisonous; even a tiny sip can be fatal.
If you’re going to use antifreeze at home, keep it out of your pet’s reach and keep your pet out of the garage, and wipe up any spills you find. If possible, use propylene glycol antifreeze, as this is less toxic to animals. In case you find your dog acting like they’re drunk, or is beginning to have a convulsion, take him or her to an animal hospital right away.
Don’t Leave Your Pet Inside the Car
You may think you’re doing your pets a favor by making them stay inside the car while you go out to buy groceries or do some errands. But a car can hold in the cold like a refrigerator and freeze your precious pets. It’s safer to leave them at home with someone else who can keep an eye on them, or bring them with you inside the building if they’re allowed.
Winter doesn’t have to be traumatic to your pets. You can keep them safe and sound with these simple, practical winter safety tips for pets.
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