Tips To Keep Your Pets Warm This Winter
Just like humans, cats, dogs and other animals get cold when the temperature drops, and they might experience increased discomfort or become more susceptible to illness. Extreme wintry weather is not just a headache for us; it's also a threat to our pets, with dogs, cats, rabbits and other small pets all at risk during cold snaps. Here are some ways you can keep your pets comfortable and safe this winter season.
Keep pets inside the house
Keep your pets sheltered inside with you and your family. Dogs are happiest when taken out frequently for walks and exercise, but kept inside the rest of the time. Don’t leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops. If you prefer keeping your dog outdoors for much of the day for any reason, make sure it's protected by a dry, draft-free shelter that is large enough to allow comfortable movements, but small enough to hold in body heat. Try raising the floor of the shelter a few meters from the ground and keep it covered. The doorway should be covered too, preferably with plastic or light fabric. Regularly check your pet’s water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Use plastic food and water bowls when the temperature is low; your pet’s tongue can stick and freeze to metal. Keep them warm and comfy no matter what the temperature is.
Wind can be a threat to a pet’s life. Exposed skin like noses, ears, and paw pads are at risk for shivering, chilliness, and having a low body temperature (hypothermia) during extremely cold conditions. For this reason, dress your short-haired dogs comfortably with a sweater, even during short walks.
Remove poisonous and hazardous products
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up any antifreeze spills immediately and keep them, like all household chemicals, out of reach. Coolants and antifreeze made with propylene glycol are less toxic to pets, wildlife and family. Dogs are at particular risk of salt poisoning in winter due to the rock salt used in many areas, often when licking it from their paws after a walk. Store de-icing salt in a safe place and wipe your dog’s paws even after short walks. If your dog ingests rock salt, call a veterinarian immediately.
Protect outdoor animals
If there are any outdoor pets, such as cats (either owned pets or community cats) in your area, keep them protected as well from the cold, as well as food and water. Cars are one of many hazards to small animals. Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, check underneath your car and bang on the bonnet before starting the engine to make sure you don’t have a feline hitchhiker, or hoot to scare them away before starting your engine. Side note: you can make your cat shelter quickly and easily with a plastic tub.
Horse care
Be sure your horses have access to a barn or a three-sided run-in so they can escape the wind and cold. While not all horses will need to be blanketed, blankets will help horses keep warm and dry, especially if there is any rain or harsh wind. If you’ve body clipped your horses, keep them blanketed throughout the winter season. Give your horses access to unfrozen water at all times (you can use heated buckets or water heaters to make sure the water doesn’t freeze) and be sure to feed your horses more forage (grass or hay, unlimited amounts if possible) during extreme cold. This will help your horses create heat and regulate their body temperatures.
Study up on your pet’s breed
Just like humans react differently to different seasons, some pets like Husky dogs and Persian cats are more tolerant to cold weather than others. Make sure you do your homework on your breed. Dogs such as Dobermans, Chihuahuas, and Great Danes require a little extra protection in the cold. Did you know short-nosed dogs are at risk of suffering heatstroke if they exercise vigorously in freezing temperatures and then settle in a warm house?
Help stray pets
If you encounter a pet left in the cold, politely let the owner know you’re concerned. Some people have no idea the risk that cold weather poses to their pets or livestock and will be quick to correct any problems you address.
Be prepared for cold weather
If the weather forecasters predict an extreme cold snap or snow and blizzards, make sure you have a pet emergency plan ready. This includes stocking up on food and any prescription medication, knowing who to call in an emergency, and how you might travel to the vet in an emergency or harsh conditions.