Pet Winter Safety Tips

Let’s Keep Our Furry Family Members Happy and Healthy

This time of year we take extra care to bundle up, dress in layers and protect ourselves from dipping temperatures. The same care needs to be taken for our family pets to keep them happy and healthy during these cold winter months.

Pets get Frostbite

Just like we have to protect ourselves from the cold, so do your pets. Never leave your pet outside in freezing temperatures for any extended amount of time. Keep walks and play-time short. Also, never let your dogs off leash on snow or ice. Dogs lose their sense of smell and can become disoriented quickly.

Micro-chipped and Tags

Always have your dogs live with ID tags. This is very important if your pet gets lost and most especially important during colder weather months. Have your cell phone number added to a tag so that if you are traveling with your pet for school vacations or driving with your pet over long distances you can be reached other than on your home phone. Many pet store chains offer tag engraving machines at their store locations, so there is no need to have a tag shipped or mailed, you can make it the same day.

Invest in a Coat

Some dogs have a nice thick, warm coat, but some short-haired varieties need an extra layer for warmth while outside. Bring your dog with you to your local pet store (many allow pets to come inside) and have them try on a jacket or two, or three … There are so many types and sizes, not to mention styles, find one that comfortably fits your pet.

Add More Calories

Dogs work harder to stay warm when playing outside. It’s a good idea to increase their food supply, like protein, to keep your pup in tip-top shape.

Beware of Poison

Antifreeze and coolants that leak from cars are lethal to dogs and cats. Paws, legs and stomachs should be wiped off when coming in and out of the rain, sleet and winter conditions. Street salt is also very damaging to the pads of animal’s feet and if they lick their feet, direct contact can lead to burns and poisoning.

We stopped in at our local pet store to see what they recommended to help with the massive amounts of street salt that is on the roads right now. They have disposable rubber ‘booties’ that fit snugly over the dogs paws to protect them. We were thrilled to see they came in sizes from extra small to extra large – to ensure a perfect fit.

Cozy Sleep Spots

Pets want to be warm and cozy, just like you! Offer then a warm place off a drafty, cold floor to sleep. They will love you for it and you’ll feel good knowing that they are warm and comfortable.

Car Hood Safety

That’s right, cats and other small animals can find your warm car engine very comfortable after you shut your car off. Be certain to tap or bang on your hood of your vehicle before starting your engine to give a sleeping cat time to vacate their cozy spot from underneath your car.

Be Vigilant about Abuse

If you suspect that an animal is being abused or neglected, please call your local animal control agency.