Tips on keeping furry friends safe, warm

By Alaysha Maple
Posted 1/17/25

As temperatures drop and frosty mornings continue, winter brings challenges not only for humans but for our four-legged friends as well.

While cozy sweaters and steaming cocoa keep us warm, our …

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Tips on keeping furry friends safe, warm

Posted

As temperatures drop and frosty mornings continue, winter brings challenges not only for humans but for our four-legged friends as well.

While cozy sweaters and steaming cocoa keep us warm, our pets rely on us to prepare them for the colder months. From chilly walks to icy driveways, the smallest details of winter weather can impact their health and safety.

Just like people, pets and livestock are susceptible to hypothermia and frostbite, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Arthritic and elderly pets may have more difficulty walking on snow and ice, making them prone to slipping and falling. Short-haired pets feel the cold faster because they have less protection, and short-legged pets may become cold faster because their bellies and bodies are more likely to come into contact with ice- or snow-covered ground. Pets with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease or hormonal imbalances, such as Cushing's disease, may have a harder time regulating their body temperature and may be more susceptible to problems from extreme cold temperatures.

Despite long-haired or thick-coated dogs being more cold-tolerant, they are still at risk in cold weather.

Regardless of whether your furry friend is big or small, tall or stout, canine or feline, they're cute and deserve to be well-prepared for the cold. And it doesn't have to be overwhelming - it's about small, thoughtful steps to ensure they stay happy, healthy and comfortable amid the chill.

To help out, a Midlands animal control unit provided tips on how to keep your furry friends warm.

Bring pets inside

- The best way to protect your pet is to keep them indoors during cold weather. If it's too cold for you, it's too cold for them.

- Dogs can be taken outside for exercise but should stay inside the rest of the time.

Shelter for outdoor pets

- If pets must stay outdoors, provide a dry, draft-free shelter large enough for them to move comfortably but small enough to retain body heat.

- Raise the shelter's floor a few inches off the ground and cover it with cedar shavings or straw.

- Turn the shelter's entrance away from the wind and cover the doorway with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.

- Cats should never be left outdoors, even if they usually roam outside.

- Bang on the hood and honk the horn before starting your car. Feral or outdoor cats may climb into warm engines for shelter.

Protect paws

- Apply petroleum jelly or vet-approved paw balm to protect your dog's paws from cracking and frostbite.

- Wipe paws after walks to remove ice, salt and chemicals.

Avoid antifreeze

- Antifreeze is toxic to pets. Clean up spills immediately, and store it securely.

Food and water

- Pets need more food in winter to maintain body heat.

- Ensure water bowls are fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic bowls to prevent tongues from sticking to metal.

Keep coats long

- Let your dog's coat grow longer in winter for added warmth.

- For short-haired dogs, consider a coat or sweater for additional insulation.

Identification and safety

- Make sure your pet wears an ID tag and is microchipped.

Monitor their behavior

- Look for signs of discomfort or cold, such as shivering or lethargy. Bring your pet inside immediately if they seem cold.

Exercise safely

- Limit outdoor activity during extreme weather. Walk dogs during warmer daylight hours.

Be cautious with ice and salt

- Avoid areas treated with rock salt or chemical de-icers.

By following these tips, your pets will stay warm, safe and healthy throughout the winter chill.

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