Keep An Eye On Them
Humans are not overly fond of the cold, and chances are most of our pets aren't either. Just because most animals have fur coats doesn't mean they are immune to the effects of cold weather. What can you do to keep your pet safe when the temperature begins to drop?
According to some experts, you should bring in any outdoor pets when the temperature reaches freezing; others advise bringing them in when the temperature falls below 20 degrees. Whatever you decide, keep in mind that all pets, outdoor and indoor, need exercise, even in the winter. Depending upon the type of pet you have, you may have to take them out in the cold weather. Don't keep them out there for too long, however, and if possible, put a sweater on them to help keep them warm. Keeping their coat well groomed will also protect them from the cold.
Make sure you wipe off your pet's feet after any outdoor exercise. Chemicals used to melt ice can irritate and burn the pads of your pet's feet. Other ways to protect their feet include spraying their pads with cooking oil and putting boots on them.
If your pet lives indoors, chances are they will be getting less exercise in the winter and will need less food. However, if your pet stays outside most of the winter, they will burn more calories to keep warm and will need more food. Make sure you provide for them appropriately. Don't forget about their water either. They will need plenty of fresh, unfrozen water. Stay away from metal bowls-your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to the metal-and use plastic bowls instead.
In addition to extra food and fresh water, your pet will need a draft-free shelter that is large enough for them to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to retain their body heat. For added warmth, cover the floor of the shelter with straw or cedar shavings and the door with heavy plastic or waterproof fabric.
Other tips for keeping outdoor and indoor pets safe include:
o Inspect your driveway and garage regularly for antifreeze. Although they may taste sweet, most brands of antifreeze are poisonous. If your pet consumes any antifreeze, get them to the vet immediately.
o Slap the hood of your vehicle in the winter before starting it. Small animals, such as cats, could be taking refuge there to keep warm.
o Don't pile snow high around a fence. Your pet could use the packed snow to escape over the top.
o Take care of any drafts around windows and doors. You don't want your pet to catch cold.
Adequate care of all family members, including pets, is important in the winter. Be a responsible pet owner and keep your pet happy and safe this winter.
Humans are not overly fond of the cold, and chances are most of our pets aren't either. Just because most animals have fur coats doesn't mean they are immune to the effects of cold weather. What can you do to keep your pet safe when the temperature begins to drop?
According to some experts, you should bring in any outdoor pets when the temperature reaches freezing; others advise bringing them in when the temperature falls below 20 degrees. Whatever you decide, keep in mind that all pets, outdoor and indoor, need exercise, even in the winter. Depending upon the type of pet you have, you may have to take them out in the cold weather. Don't keep them out there for too long, however, and if possible, put a sweater on them to help keep them warm. Keeping their coat well groomed will also protect them from the cold.
Make sure you wipe off your pet's feet after any outdoor exercise. Chemicals used to melt ice can irritate and burn the pads of your pet's feet. Other ways to protect their feet include spraying their pads with cooking oil and putting boots on them.
If your pet lives indoors, chances are they will be getting less exercise in the winter and will need less food. However, if your pet stays outside most of the winter, they will burn more calories to keep warm and will need more food. Make sure you provide for them appropriately. Don't forget about their water either. They will need plenty of fresh, unfrozen water. Stay away from metal bowls-your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to the metal-and use plastic bowls instead.
In addition to extra food and fresh water, your pet will need a draft-free shelter that is large enough for them to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to retain their body heat. For added warmth, cover the floor of the shelter with straw or cedar shavings and the door with heavy plastic or waterproof fabric.
Other tips for keeping outdoor and indoor pets safe include:
o Inspect your driveway and garage regularly for antifreeze. Although they may taste sweet, most brands of antifreeze are poisonous. If your pet consumes any antifreeze, get them to the vet immediately.
o Slap the hood of your vehicle in the winter before starting it. Small animals, such as cats, could be taking refuge there to keep warm.
o Don't pile snow high around a fence. Your pet could use the packed snow to escape over the top.
o Take care of any drafts around windows and doors. You don't want your pet to catch cold.
Adequate care of all family members, including pets, is important in the winter. Be a responsible pet owner and keep your pet happy and safe this winter.
