The weather outside sure is frightful! With decreasing temperatures, snow and harsh winds in the atmosphere, we must be mindful of our pets as the weather gets cold- er. Just as we’d advise strongly against leaving your pet in a warm car, cold weather poses just as serious risks to your pet as the risks of increasing temperatures does. A Sphynx cat (obviously) does not have the same coat as a German Shepherd dog. Having said this, you should be mindful that every animal’s cold tolerance will vary. Keep reading for some tips to keep in mind as the weather gets cooler to ensure your furry friends stay safe this Winter season!
Be prepared for the cold: Purchasing a coat that can withstand cooler temperatures and even harsh winds or snow will pay off in the Winter months. If your dog’s fur coat is not protected by the snow or freezing rain by an additional coat you can purchase at a pet store, their fur can get matted and cause their skin to become rough and dry which can cause additional issues. Purchasing a pair of dog booties can significantly help your pet’s paws from becoming blistered, dry or injured on ice or tough snow.
Change your routine: Instead of longer walks, you may want to adjust your routine to include additional walks that are shorter in distance. Older dogs often have difficulty walking in snowy or icy conditions – not to mention it isn’t always the safest for their human parents. Keep in mind that just because your dog has a thick or long coat, they still feel the impacts of cold weather, so shortening their walks is not a bad idea as well.
Put yourself in your pet’s paws: Dogs and cats with diabetes, heart disease, kidney dis- ease, or hormonal imbalances cannot always accurately regulate their body temperature. Because of this, it’s key that you keep in mind what the temperature is outside and ask yourself what you think is in your pet’s best interest. Both dogs and cats are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. For cats especially, even if they do go out- doors in other types of weather, it is critical you are mindful of their well being during the cooler temperatures as they cannot always tell what might be too dangerous for them.
Pet proof for winter: You may have had your pet for several Winters, or this might be your first snowfall with your new furry friend. Regardless, be sure to only use a space heater when you’re in the room it is heating. You’d be surprised at how easily pets can knock over space heaters, which can lead to a re. Just like humans, pets get cold and love to snuggle, especially in the winter months. During the day or while you’re not home, pets still want that warmth, so giving them a comfy pet bed to snooze on is a great replacement while you’re out. Additionally, install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your house – they not only protect your pets from lethal chemicals, but they also protect you.
Honk your horn: This sounds silly, but feral cats have been known to make their home within the engine of cars – especially just after it has been running because it’s warm. Obviously, this is very dangerous so be sure to honk your horn so that our feline friends can evacuate before you start on your journey. As always, we are here to answer any questions and suggest that if you haven’t already, give us a call today to schedule your pet’s wellness check-up. Some medical conditions like arthritis are worsened by the cold weather, so in order ensure your pet is as well protected for Winter as possible, it’s best to make sure you understand their health.
As always, we are here to answer any questions and suggest that if you haven't already, give us a call today to schedule your pet's wellness check-up. Some medical conditions like arthritis are worsened by the cold weather, so in order to ensure your pet is as well protected for Winter as possible, it's best to make sure you understand their health.
Pet proof for winter: You may have had your pet for several Winters, or this might be your first snowfall with your new furry friend. Regardless, be sure to only use a space heater when you’re in the room it is heating. You’d be surprised at how easily pets can knock over space heaters, which can lead to a re. Just like humans, pets get cold and love to snuggle, especially in the winter months. During the day or while you’re not home, pets still want that warmth, so giving them a comfy pet bed to snooze on is a great replacement while you’re out. Additionally, install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your house – they not only protect your pets from lethal chemicals, but they also protect you.
Honk your horn: This sounds silly, but feral cats have been known to make their home within the engine of cars – especially just after it has been running because it’s warm. Obviously, this is very dangerous so be sure to honk your horn so that our feline friends can evacuate before you start on your journey. As always, we are here to answer any questions and suggest that if you haven’t already, give us a call today to schedule your pet’s wellness check-up. Some medical conditions like arthritis are worsened by the cold weather, so in order ensure your pet is as well protected for Winter as possible, it’s best to make sure you understand their health.
As always, we are here to answer any questions and suggest that if you haven't already, give us a call today to schedule your pet's wellness check-up. Some medical conditions like arthritis are worsened by the cold weather, so in order to ensure your pet is as well protected for Winter as possible, it's best to make sure you understand their health.
No comments:
Post a Comment