Winter Pet Safety Tips
Winter and cold temperatures can put our pets at risk. Learn how to help your furry family members cope with the cold weather with these cold weather pet tips.
As temperatures drop and snow begins to fall, many of us may decide to hibernate indoors, enjoying the warmth of blankets and hot chocolate. But dog owners have no choice but to venture outside and brave the freezing temperatures with our canine companions. Rain, shine, or shine, dogs still need to go out to do their business, and winter can transform the outside world into a new playground for our four-legged companions.
Before you head out to frolic in the snow, or take your dog for a walk in the cold, here are some cold weather pet safety tips to help keep your best friend happy and healthy all winter long.
How Cold Is Too Cold?
Every pet is different, and some are more tolerant of the cold than others. For example, Siberian Huskies and Great Pyrenees can handle even the coldest temperatures and seem to come alive at the sight of snow. Your pet's size, weight, age, health, and coat type will determine whether your pet will turn into a Balto or freeze like a popsicle when winter comes. That said, a good rule of thumb is that if it's too cold for you, it's probably too cold for your pet.
Generally speaking, just pay attention. Your pet will usually let you know if he's not having a good time out in the cold, but here are some signs that it may be a good time to bring your pet home:
• Shivering
• Lethargic
• Whining
• Lifting or holding paws off the ground
• Pale gums
• Limping
• In extreme cases, hypothermia may be possible. Signs include prolonged lethargy, shivering that doesn't stop, stumbling around, and even loss of consciousness. If you notice any of these signs, you should seek veterinary treatment immediately.
• Limit time spent outside
• The point is that it doesn't always matter how much cold is too much, but how long your pet will be exposed to the cold. A short outing to relieve himself probably won't hurt, but during the winter your pet should spend most of his time with you inside. During the winter months you should never keep your dog tied up outside, and you should bring in outdoor cats. Cats and small, sick, or short-haired dogs are at higher risk for cold weather and may need special care.
Winter Car Safety
Pet owners should always be careful when traveling with their pets. Car safety is important year-round, and winter is no exception. During the winter you're more likely to encounter additional road hazards, such as ice and snow. So, when traveling with your pet in the car, don't forget to protect him by using a crate or harness. Also, it's always a good idea to keep an emergency kit in the car for any situation that may occur.
Just as you shouldn't leave your pet alone in a locked car during the summer, you shouldn't leave your pet unattended in a car during the winter either. Cars keep the cold inside the same way refrigerators do, so the temperature can drop quickly as soon as you turn off the engine. When in doubt, it's best to leave your pet at home.
As for our feline friends, cats that live outside may find the engine block under the warm hood a perfect place to take a nap during the winter. Before you start your car in the morning, remember to tap the hood to wake up any cats or critters that may be sleeping there.
Whether your pet likes to frolic in the snow, eat it, or avoid it altogether, the unexpected can happen.
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