Winter Safety Tips For Pets

Phil The Groundhog may not have seen his shadow last week, but we’re not quite convinced Old Man Winter is finished with his chilly work just yet. With the cold weather reaching extreme temperatures this year, it’s important to remember that the cold affects our pets in the same way it affects us and even more so for smaller breeds.

Exposure to winter’s elements can make our pets uncomfortable, and can also be harmful to their safety and general well-being. Here are some helpful tips from our Veterinary Medical Advisor, Dr. Crystal Eng, to keep your pets safe until spring finally peeks out.

1. Before you step outside bundle your fur babies up too! Those puppy booties and jackets aren’t just a fashion statement! Protecting your pet’s paws can prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
2. Monitor your pets when they go outside. Reactions like shivering and/or teeth chattering are telltale signs it’s definitely time to head indoors.
3. Check your fences and boundaries to ensure that your little pet Houdini can’t leave the backyard. Accidents can happen and if your pet gets out, even for a few minutes in this blistery weather, it can have detrimental effects on their short- and long-term health.
4. Our beloved senior pets may need a little extra care this weather. Pets with arthritis or back pain may have increased difficulty sitting, standing, and walking, especially on icy steps or back porches. Additionally, they may feel their discomfort and joint pain a little more than normal with the colder temperatures. Ensure they are warm indoors and out and consider purchasing booties with some traction for those winter walks.
5. If your house is a little drafty or if the floors have a constant chill make sure your pets have a cozy, warm place to rest and sleep.
6. Although they brave cooler temperatures more than than most dogs, Arctic breeds like the Alaskan Husky or Malamute likely aren’t accustomed to these colder than average temperatures. Treat their safety just as you would any other dog breed during this harsh winter.
7. If you do happen to see a pet left out in the cold, pass your concern onto the owner. Some pet owners aren’t aware of the risks the winter elements pose to animals and pets.

Always remember: If it’s too cold for you it is definitely too cold for them!

As a pet parent it’s our job to provide for our pets optimal health and happiness. With a colder than normal winter it just gives us a little more time indoors snuggling with our fur babies.