Seasonal Pet Tips
APPOINTMENTWeathering the Winter
Cold weather affects all of us, even our pets! You may end up taking shorter walks with your dog, or keeping your outdoor cat indoors. Yet there are even more preventive tips to keeping your pet in good health throughout the winter.
- Be mindful of your dog’s tolerance to cold. Long-haired, northern breeds will of course be better equipped for the cold than a small short-haired breed. Yet all pets’ noses, ears and paw pads could become frostbitten if out in the cold. Make sure your pet is never out for too long, and be sure your short-haired breeds have cozy warm jackets on.
- Wipe them down after every walk. De-icing salt, chemicals, and ice can all collect on your pet’s legs, belly, and paws. The ice can irritate their skin, as will the salt and chemicals—which could also be licked, causing illness.
- Make sure to wipe your pet down after every excursion.
- Clean up the antifreeze. Antifreeze has a surprisingly sweet smell and taste to pets, which is almost irresistible.
- Clean up any spills immediately, and keep the container well out of paw’s reach.
- Give your pet a warm place to rest. Any house can get a bit drafty in the winter. Make sure your pet’s bed is in a cozy corner away from drafts.
- Be prepared. Winter weather can be extreme, and power outages are not uncommon. Include your pet in your emergency plan to make sure they have enough food and water, and are kept nice and warm.