Pet Safety Tips for Winter

Now that the season is transitioning into winter, you need to be aware of different hazards that could potentially pose a risk to your pet. Pets of any age need to be supervised more in the colder weather, so here are some tips to help you keep tabs on your animal.

Yes, dogs and cats have fur, but it doesn’t make them impervious to colds or health conditions. If your pet is wet and outside in the winter weather for a long period of time, it’s possible for them to get hypothermia, which includes symptoms such as shivering, low temperature and confusion. Because the weather can be so unpredictable during this time, it’s best to keep your pet indoors as much as possible. This way they have a warm shelter as well as access to food and water.

If you have an outdoor cat, provide them with a warm cat house that they can go to for shelter. It’s also wise to check under the hood of your car before starting it, because your feline friend or a neighbor’s cat might be seeking warmth and shelter there. Also, make sure to provide your outdoor pet with extra food and water, because they will burn more calories outside than they would inside.

You also need to keep your pet away from anti-freeze, road salt and other de-icing chemicals. Wiping off your pet with a towel every time it comes back inside is wise, because you don’t want your pet to ingest any residual chemicals on its fur or paws.

Taking care of your pet during the winter might require some extra effort on your part, but it’s well worth it. You can even make it fun by dressing your pet up in cute sweaters or coats and accessorizing with leashes and booties. If you might think pet clothing is more about fashion, it might surprise you that they can actually be functional too.