Winter Care
In many areas, winter is a season
of bitter cold and numbing wetness. Help your pets remain happy and healthy
during the colder months by following these simple guidelines.
- Don't leave dogs outdoors when the temperature
drops. Most dogs, and all cats, are safer indoors, except when taken out for
exercise. Regardless of the season, shorthaired, very young, or old dogs and
all cats should never be left outside without supervision. Short-coated dogs
may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks.
- No matter what the temperature, wind chill can
threaten a pet's life. A dog or cat is happiest and healthiest when kept
indoors. If your dog is an outdoor dog, however, he/she must be protected by
a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and
lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in his/her body heat. The
floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar
shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind,
and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
- Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more
food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check
your pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use
plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low,
your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal.
- Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and
small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any
hidden animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them away before starting
your engine.
- The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow
and ice can irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Wipe the feet with a damp
towel before your pet licks them and irritates his/her mouth.
- Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet
taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and store
antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach. Better yet, use
antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small
amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or your family.
Probably the best prescription for winter's woes is
to keep your dog or cat inside with you and your family. The happiest dogs are
those who are taken out frequently for walks and exercise but kept inside the
rest of the time. Dogs and cats are social animals who crave human
companionship. Your animal companions deserve to live indoors with you and your
family.