KEEPING PETS SAFE IN WINTER CONSISTS OF THE FOLLOWING:
1. Warm Coats for Outdoors a Must
A dog’s fur alone isn’t enough protection from frigid temperatures, especially as a puppy or senior. Be sure to slip a winter coat or raincoat on your furry friend before you allow him outdoors.
2. Encourage Potty Breaks
You may find your dog reluctant to take potty breaks in rain and snow. Some dogs hate snow and it can be quite a chore getting him out of the house. Early training is the key to success. Bring an umbrella for both of you and/or slip a rain coat on him before heading out. Of course, small dogs can be wee wee pad trained. A blessing for some owners.
3. Always Leash Your Dog
If you’re out in the cold with your dog, be sure to keep him on a leash. Even the most obedient pet is safer when on‐leash in the snow and rain. Winter weather can wipe away familiar scents and leave your dog lost or confused.
4. Keep Pets Dry
After playing in the snow, dry your dog immediately with a towel. Don’t forget to wipe his legs, paws and stomach. Salt from the ice and antifreeze can be hazardous if left on paws.
5. Check for Hiding Cats
In the winter months, it’s not uncommon to find outdoor cats seeking shelter underneath your car. Starting your car while a cat lies beneath it can be dangerous. Bang on the hood of your car loudly a few times before you enter. The noise will scare away any cats trying to keep warm.
6. NEVER Leave Pets Unattended In a Car
Especially NOT in hot summer temps or frigid ones in winter. If it’s cold outside, leave your dog or cat at home.
7. Keep Pets Indoors
Leaving your dog or cat outside unattended in the snow or rain puts them at risk for illness. If your dog or cat is kept outside, create a warm, dry place for them. Build a dog house or cat shelter that is well‐insulated. Check their water bowl frequently to be sure the water hasn’t turned into ice. Pets are family and should live indoors.
8. Keep Pets Healthy
Dogs and cats with weak immune systems should avoid the outdoors as much as possible during the cold months. Low temperatures can make pets more susceptible to illness during change of seasons. If you notice your pet feeling under the weather, don’t ignore the symptoms. Take them to the vet immediately!
9. Limit Outdoor Trips
Keeping pets indoors as much as possible is the best way to keep them safe in winter. Outdoor CATS are especially susceptible to hazards like frostbite, getting lost, or being exposed to diseases. Allow them inside during the winter months. An indoor cat is a healthier cat.
10. Electricity Concerns
Your dog or cat may love to snuggle up next to you and enjoy the warmth of a heated blanket, but allowing them to do so unattended can be dangerous, especially if they’re chewers. If you’re worried about keeping your pet warm at night, try using Snuggle Safe Pet Bed Microwave Heating Pad, found on Amazon or Chewy.com. Warm up the pad in the microwave for 5 minutes and the pads will retain heat for up to 12 hours.
NATIONAL PET WELLNESS
Animals are a window to your soul and a doorway to your spiritual destiny. If you let them into your life and allow them to teach you, you will be better for it. ― Kim Shotola
Adopted Pets are the best pets you can have. Most adoptable pets come from loving homes that simply cannot care for them anymore. Or they are strays who’ve been on their own without the loving care they deserve. ― Josh Duhamel
"Owning a dog is not just a privilege; it’s a responsibility. They depend on us for, at minimum, food and shelter, and deserve much more. When you take a dog into your life, you need to understand the commitment that dog ownership entails." ~ AKC
Cats Are Like Potato Chips — You Can't Have Just One!
GREAT DANES leave Giant Pawprints on your Heart.
