Winterize Your Pet at the Vet
Cold weather is hard on everyone, especially your pets. You may think that a fur coat makes them immune to the hazards of winter, but animals are as vulnerable as we are to chilly temperatures. Before the cold really sets in, visit the veterinarian for a winter checkup to make sure your pet doesn't have any circulatory or other medical problems that might worsen if exposed to cold. Also, clean your pets regularly — the cleaner the hair, feathers and fur, the better it insulates.
Safety Tips for Outdoor Pets
Of course, the easiest thing to do is bring your pet indoors for the winter because most of them can't tolerate extremely cold weather. To make this transition, line cold tile or linoleum floors with padding or throw rugs to keep paws toasty. If you take them outside, dress smaller, shorthaired dogs, such as Chihuahuas, miniature pinschers and miniature dachshunds, in knit sweaters. Pets lose most of their body heat through their foot pads, ears and respiratory track, so keep a close eye on them for signs of discomfort. If they whine, shiver, slow down or stop moving, take them inside. Also, remember that if you're feeling the chill, they are, too.
If you must leave them outdoors for an extended period, give your pets a solid shelter with thick, dry bedding and fresh water to protect them against inclement weather. Raise doghouse floors enough to avoid water runoff from entering, and drape a canvas curtain or other protection over the opening to buffer the wind. Cats have the peculiar habit of crawling up into car engines to stay warm, which can have hazardous results. Always check your car before starting it or, better yet, keep your cat indoors. It's dangerous to leave any pet outdoors when the temperature dips below freezing, so continually check the temperature.
Leaving Your Pet out in the Cold: The Risks
Animals left outside in freezing temperature without adequate shelter are prone to frostbite and hypothermia. Frostbite generally occurs on paws, ears and tails when ice crystals form in the tissue. Unfortunately, frostbite is not immediately obvious, and it may take several days for signs of damage to appear. If you suspect your pet has frostbite, call your veterinarian immediately.
Preventing Cold Paws
Paw care is another way to keep your pet happy during the winter months. Dogs frequently get ice balls between the pads and toes of their feet, which are very painful. To help prevent these, trim the hair around your dog's feet and apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or cooking spray to them before taking your pet for a walk. Gently wipe off the bottom of paws when your pet comes inside to remove rough street salt.
Warming Your Pet's Tummy
It's also important to adjust your pet's feeding during the winter. Outdoor dogs require up to 25 percent more energy to maintain body temperature, while cats and indoor dogs require fewer calories since they are getting less exercise. However, all pets require plenty of fresh drinking water, so make sure their water hasn't frozen or developed any ice crystals, and use plastic bowls to keep dogs' tongues from freezing to metal pans. Taking these precautions will keep your pets safe and warm until spring.
If your dog exercises less during the winter months, he may tend to gain weight.
