Winter is here! With the arrival of freezing temps, snow, and ice, it’s important to remember the impact that cold can have on pets. Here are some top tips for keeping our furry friends safe this season:
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Keep paws protected: While we encourage outdoor exercise year-round, dog paws can be quite susceptible to snow and ice. Use paw balm (Musher’s Secret is good one!) if you take your dog into heavy snow, and check their paws often for ice and snow accumulation. Get into the habit of checking between toes and drying paws once walks are over. Seek veterinary attention if you notice redness, sores/cuts, cracked paws, or bluish-purple discoloration of the paws, which may indicate frostbite.
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Bundle up: Add an extra layer to keep your pet warm! Waterproof coats, fleece jackets, and booties are all great options to protect pets while on walks.
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Car safety: Did you know that leaving your pet in a cold car can be as dangerous as a hot car can? Parked cars can act as a refrigerator, cooling down rapidly, and chilling your pet’s body temperature in the process. Animals that are very young, geriatric, thin, or ill, should never be left unattended in a vehicle. Leave your pet at home where possible when temps are chilly.
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Avoid exposure to toxins: Anti-freeze is extremely toxic to pets, and it has a sweet flavor which is attractive to pets. Clean up any spills right away to prevent exposure. If you suspect your pet may have come into contact with anti-freeze, seek ER care immediately. Ice melt and other de-icers can cause chemical burns to paws and sickness if ingested. Use a pet-safe brand where possible.
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Provide shelter for outdoor pets: Bring pets indoors when temperatures drop if possible, especially overnight. For barn cats, provide a warm, dry, and sturdy shelter. Elevate it off the ground and add thick, dry bedding. Check the shelter frequently to ensure it stays clean and dry. Always ensure outdoor pets have access to a supply of fresh water by changing frequently or using a pet-safe heater water bowl.
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Be prepared for emergencies: Consider your pet in disaster preparedness. It’s a good idea to have a week’s worth of supplies that your pet may need in the event of a blizzard, severe storm, or widespread power outage. Include at least 5 days’ worth of essential medications, heartworm/flea/tick prevention, food, and water.
Know your pet: After cold exposure, monitor for shivering, lethargy, anxiety, or heat-seeking behavior. These may all be signs of hypothermia and veterinary care should be sought right away.