Keeping your Pets Safe During the Winter

Many people dread the winter season, with its cold temperatures and wintry weather. Winter weather can make it difficult to get out and do the same things you would enjoy in the warmer months. This also affects your pets, who often spend time outside to burn energy and use the bathroom. When taking your pets outside in the winter, there are some tips from the ASPCA that you should follow to ensure the safety of your pet during this time of the year.

• First and foremost, if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet. Keep your pets inside as much as possible during freezing temperatures. Also, do not leave your pet inside a car for too long, as cars can hold in the cold and cause animals to freeze. Leaving your pet in the cold for too long can cause major injury and even death.
• Never shave your pet in the winter. Animals use their fur as extra warmth

  Photo from the aspca

  during the winter months. Keeping their hair trimmed, but long, is the best option for the winter months. If your pet has short hair, it may be a good idea to get your pet a jacket or coat to wear when you take them outside.

• When your pet comes in from the outside, it is important to towel them off immediately. Dry off your pet to keep them warm, and be sure to focus on the paw areas, as snow can get in between their foot pads.
• Additionally, after your dog has been outside, it is important to clean off their stomach and paws to remove salt and other chemicals found on the ground during this time of the year.
• Pets burn extra energy in the winter to stay warm. The ASPCA recommends feeding your dog a little extra food in the wintertime to compensate for the extra energy being used.
• Lastly, antifreeze is poisonous to dogs and cats, so it is important to watch for spills under your vehicle or any other places you may have used the antifreeze.

If you have pets at home be sure to follow these tips and pass them along to your friends and family who have pets at home, as well. If your pet loves the snow or has a new jacket or coat this winter, share your photos with us in the comments below!