Whether your pet loves the winter or not, it’s important to keep them safe this season. While your furry friend may have a nice thick coat, pets are just as susceptible to ailments this time of year as we humans are. When temperatures drop and streets are covered in salt and ice, you need to take proper precautions to ensure your pet is ready! Below you’ll find some expert advice on keeping your pets safe during the year’s chilliest months:
Protect those paws . . .
Exposure to cold and damp conditions can lead to pups with chapped paws! To prevent your pet from this pain, the ASPCA recommends rubbing petroleum jelly into paws or putting on some protective booties. If you wouldn’t head out into the snow without proper foot protection, why should your pet?
Stay warm and cut down walks . . .
Sure, dogs and cats have fur coats – but their noses, ears, and paws are at risk of frostbite during these cold months. Don’t keep your pets outside longer than needed– if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them! Bundle them up in a coat and booties and get them back inside as soon as possible.
Keep clean with warm water . . .
Big winter storms mean loads of salt on our roads . . . and on the paws of our furry friends. Pets are notorious for licking their paws so, to prevent salt poisoning, experts say you can put some warm water on a towel and give their paws and stomach a quick wash once you get back inside.
Towel dry your pets . . .
When your pet comes in after a walk in the winter, be sure to dry them off with a clean towel. Remove any ice balls, excess salt and chemicals from their fur and skin. Take a look at their paws as well to check for dry or cracked pads.
Fill those bellies . . .
Much like humans, our furry friends burn extra energy to stay warm during the winter months. So, it’s not a bad idea to put a bit more food in their bowls this time of year. In fact, plenty of humans do the same thing! Also, if your pet eats outside, be sure to use plastic bowls instead of metal which can stick to their tongues if it gets too cold.
Raise your voice . . .
If you see a pet left outside in the freezing cold with no sign of an owner, contact the authorities. Remember, just because cats and dogs have fur doesn’t mean they have magical warming powers! They’re still at great risk this time of year and it’s our job to make sure they stay safe and happy.