Follow these tips to keep animals safe and comfortable in the cold
Winter is a season of bitter cold and numbing wetness. Make sure your fur babies stay safe and warm by following these simple steps.
Keep pets sheltered
Keep your pets inside with you and your family. Under no circumstances should pet cats be left outdoors, even if they roam outside during other seasons. Don’t leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops.
If your dog is outdoors much of the day, they must be protected by a dry, draft-free shelter that is large enough to allow them to move comfortably, but small enough to hold in body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches from the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
Bundle up, wipe down
No matter what the temperature is, wind chill can threaten a pet’s life. Exposed skin on noses, ears and paw pads are at risk for frostbite and hypothermia during dangerous cold snaps.
Rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet’s feet. Wipe all paws with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates their mouth.
Remove common poisons
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals. Clean up any spills immediately and keep it, like all household chemicals, out of reach.
