Winter is one of the most wonderful times of the year yet can also be one of the most treacherous, especially for people with pets. The drop in temperatures and harsher weather conditions bring serious risks to our furry friends. From frostbite to hypothermia, the cold weather poses a number of threats to the health and safety of our pets. With the right precautions, though, we can help our pets stay comfortable, warm, and safe all winter long.

Following are some essential winter pet safety tips to make sure your animal companions are well cared for during the colder months:

Keep Pets Indoors

As tempting as it might be to let your dog or cat enjoy the winter wonderland, it's much safer to keep them indoors whenever the temperature outside gets too low. Remember: If it's too cold for you, it's likely too cold for them. Prolonged exposure to cold weather can lead to dangerous conditions like frostbite, hypothermia, and even death. Animals left outside can also become disoriented, lost, injured, or stolen. Never leave your pets alone in a cold car as cars act like refrigerators and trap cold, which could lead to hypothermia.

Hydration and Nutrition

Cold weather dries out your pet's skin, so make sure they can always have plenty of fresh water and a diet that is a little higher in calories. Pets use more energy in winter trying to stay warm, so a little more food may be beneficial. Check with your vet for the proper portion sizes and whether your pet requires additional nutrients during the cold weather months.

Protect Their Paws

Ice, snow, and the salt-clearing chemicals can burn your pet's paws and dry them out, causing cracking and even open sores. Before going outside, rub petroleum jelly or protectants made for paw pads onto your pet's paws to protect them. Putting booties on will offer even more protection. After being outside, dry off your pet and pay special attention to their paws, giving a thorough cleaning between the toes to remove any ice and salt that may be irritating and uncomfortable.

Dress for the Weather

While most pets have natural coats to keep them warm, short-haired pets or those with less body fat may need additional warmth. Consider getting your dog a sweater or coat that covers from the base of their tail to their belly. This is particularly important for small or aged pets, who may be more sensitive to cold temperatures. Be sure to change your pet's sweater if it gets wet, as a damp coat can actually make them colder.

Watch for De-icing Chemicals

Ice-melting chemicals for sidewalks and roads are poisonous if swallowed. Antifreeze is especially hazardous for pets and may be fatal even in small quantities. Immediately clean up spills and keep these toxins out of reach of your pet. After walks, clean your pet's paws if they may have come into contact with de-icing chemicals on the ground. If you must use de-icers at home, consider using pet-friendly alternatives or take other precautionary measures to protect your pet from the risk of accidental poisoning.

Avoid Frozen Water Sources

Frozen ponds, lakes, and rivers can be extremely hazardous for pets. Never let your pet off-leash near frozen water; the ice may not be thick enough to support their weight. If your pet falls through the ice, both of you could be in immediate danger. Always be aware of where you walk your pet during the winter months.

Provide a Warm Sleeping Space

During winter, this means providing them with a warm, cozy place to rest. Give them a bed off the floor away from any drafts and lined with extra blankets for warmth. Make sure your pets have a source of fresh, unfrozen water at all times, especially if they remain outdoors for short periods, and avoid using space heaters or heat lamps around pets in order to prevent burns or fires.

Keep Them Active But Safe

While you need to minimize the time your pet is out in cold weather, you also want to ensure they get physical activity. You can achieve this through shorter walks in winter. Immediately take them indoors if you notice signs of discomfort, such as shivering or refusing to walk any further. Older or arthritic pets may have difficulty navigating icy paths, so be extra cautious to prevent falls.

Watch for Hypothermia and Frostbite

Like humans, pets can become hypothermic and get frostbite if left in the cold too long. If your pet begins to shiver, whine, act anxious or attempts to burrow in warm areas, this is a symptom of hypothermia. Frostbite is harder to notice but might cause skin to turn pale and even blister. Bring your pet inside immediately and call your veterinarian if you suspect your pet has frostbite or hypothermia.

Prevent Them from Getting Lost

It is much easier for pets to become lost during winter, especially since snowstorms bury familiar scents. Always keep your pet wearing a collar with current identification tags and consider microchipping for extra security. If your pet likes to roam free, a GPS collar could be a thoughtful investment.

Know Your Pet's Limits

Just like humans, there is a big variation in the cold-weather tolerance of pets based on coat type, size, age, and health conditions. Older pets, young pets, and those with underlying conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, or diabetes can be more sensitive to cold temperatures. It is best to consult with your veterinarian to learn the needs and limitations of your pet in cold weather.

Winter is a very magical time to share with your pets, but it does take some extra TLC to ensure the animals stay comfortable and safe, too. By keeping them indoors in extreme cold, protecting their paws, adjusting their diet, and keeping their health checked, you will be able to ensure your pets are warm, safe, and happy during the entire winter season.

Visit our website or download our free Pet First Aid app to learn more.

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- Written by Kiara Miller