Keeping Your Pet Safe In Winter Weather

by Christina Yeager

Winter can be especially tough on humans. Just think about how it can be on our pets! Yeah, their furry (most of them), but that doesn't mean they can handle the elements.

Here's some winter weather tips on caring for your pets when it's cold!

Things to take caution with:

• WATER - Animals need more water in colder temperatures than in the summer! Yes, it's true. Make sure that their water supply does not freeze.
• ANTIFREEZE - It only takes a few licks to poison your precious pet. Keep this up and away in your garage. Please.
• ROAD SALT - This compound can cause very painful burns to your pets feet, mouth and tongue. It's a chemical! 
• SNOW - I'll admit, it's cute to watch a pet romp in the snow, but...don't leave them unattended. Scents, landmarks and sound are gonna be different to your little one. They could get confused and get lost! Also, leaving them in the cold damp powdery stuff too long can dangerously lower their body temperature. You wouldn't stick your puppy in the freezer, right?

Keeping your pet warm:

• Sweaters are great for keeping fur dry, clean and warm.
• Keep the bed or crate in a draft-free area of the home.
• Remove any snow left over from playing or potty time.
• Don't let your pet too close to any open flame (fireplace, etc.)
• Keep pets away from heating ducts. The warm dry air can cause dry, flaky skin.
• Never leave a pet alone around space heater or those that use gases.

The best place for a pet is inside with you, but not all pet lovers can do this. In that case...

Outside pets:

• Use a highly insulated dog house that is the appropriate size for the pet. Not too big and not too small. You don't wanna let all the body heat out, right?
• Dog houses with doors on the side are better.
• Elevate the dog house to prevent moisture.
• Keep bedding dry and change it often.
• Non-metal water bowls! Keep those little tongues from sticking.
• Get a warming device for the water bowl and a safe heating pad for under the bed can also work.

We love our pets! So, let's make sure that they get the best possible care!