Protect Your Pets During Winter

How to Protect Your Pets During the Winter

You and your family aren’t the only ones who need extra protection when the temperatures are freezing. Don’t forget your furry friends this winter when the weather gets low. Exposure to the seasonable cold air and precipitation can sometimes cause irritation or flaky skin. Not only that but your typical walks or outdoor exercise can be perilous to your pet’s paws, coat, and energy.

PROTECT THEIR PAWS

Often the salt and other chemicals we use to melt the snow and ice can irritate our pet’s feet. Massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into the pads of their feet can help protect from these harmful agents. After coming inside, remove any ice or snowballs that may form and stick in between their toes. Wipe each paw with a damp towel to remove any irritants off of their fur before your animal licks it off. ¹

MAINTAIN THEIR COAT

Keep your pet’s coat at its natural length during the colder months. A warm fur coat adds extra protection to your furry friends in the winter. If your pet’s coat is long in length trim it just enough to prevent excess ice and snowballs from freezing. If your pet is short-haired and seems bothered by the cold consider a bit of clothing – but nothing too excessive. After coming inside, remember to wipe down their coats and underbellies to remove excess water and chemical agents that may dry and flake their skin. Washing your pet too often wears away essentials oils that help protect the coat and skin. ¹

AVOID POISONING

Antifreeze is deadly but it has a sweet scent that attracts animals. Wipe up spills of antifreeze and coolants. Keep all household products and chemicals sealed and securely out of reach. ²

MAKE SURE THEY’RE NOURISHED

Keeping warm in winter takes extra energy. Make sure your pet has enough food and water to keep him nourished. Check the water bowl regularly to make it is filled, fresh, and unfrozen. If possible, use a plastic feeding bowls to prevent your pet’s tongue from sticking to the metal. ²

SHELTER IF NEEDED

If your animal does happen to be outside for a prolonged period of time make sure he has shelter. This space should be warm, dry, and draft-free. It should be big enough for him to lie down yet small enough to keep his body heat. The ground should be raised off the cold, hard ground and ideally be covered with cedar or shavings. Lastly, cover the door with burlap or thick plastic to prevent cold chills and precipitation. ²

Sources:

1 ASPCA. “Cold Weather Safety Tips”

2 The Humane Society. “Protect Your Pet During Winter and Cold Weather”