Pets
face specific dangers in the winter, and their human friends and owners should
take some steps to protect and care for them in chilly temperatures. Simple
steps can maintain their comfort and security, without costing too much money.
Most
significantly, keep pets inside when the temperature drops. Dogs and cats, even
if normally allowed outside, should be brought indoors unless taken out for
exercise. Frostbite and hypothermia can set in within minutes, since pets have
sensitive skin that can freeze quickly. Wearing sweaters can help short-haired
dogs keep comfortable while outside briefly.
Alyssa
Longway, Volunteer Coordinator for the Coulee Region Humane Society explained,
“Dogs should really only be taken outside to ‘use the bathroom’ for a couple of
minutes when temperatures are freezing. Getting them back inside and wiping off
their paws helps remove snow-melting chemicals left in salt too.”
Pets
should also be given extra water, since maintaining body warmth requires
increased energy. Using plastic bowls instead of metal will help ensure that
pets’ tongues do not get stuck to the container in cold temperatures. Along
with regular food and water monitoring, it is critical to keep antifreeze away
from pets. Its sweet taste attracts animals, but it is deadly if consumed.
Although
strays should be reported to local humane shelters, leaving food outside for
them is another step to help other animals stay safe during the winter. Collaring
and micro-chipping pets are great ideas to make sure that pets can be
identified if lost in cold weather, when familiar scents pointing towards home
can be hidden by snow and ice.
For
more information regarding pet safety, visit avma.org, aspca.org, or
humanesociety.org.
