Brrrr…. it’s cold out! As we bundle up to face below zero temperatures and snow, it’s time to look at some cold hard facts about how our pets adjust to the weather. Believe it or not, their fur coats are not enough to protect them from extreme temperatures and even frostbite.  A common rule of thumb is that if it’s too cold for you, then it’s too cold for them. However, there are some really helpful tips to follow when taking your pets outside in the winter.

Weather Safety

The ASPCA has some tips on its website that can help you to keep your pet safe and comfortable during the winter.

After walking, wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach. This will clean off any salt or chemicals your pet might be exposed to during a walk.  Prior to walking, rub some petroleum jelly on their paws. This will help to protect them from harmful chemicals.

Our pet’s fur protects them and provides extra warmth in the severe weather. Make sure not to shave them completely in the winter. They need their fur to keep warm.

Remember that antifreeze is deadly to dogs and cats. Make sure to clean up any spills and keep them from walking in them if they are outside with you.

It’s good to feed them a little extra in the winter so that they have enough calories in their systems because keeping warm burns more. Check with your pet’s vet first to make sure they can have extra calories.

Holiday Safety

Be careful with table scraps during the holidays. It’s better to give them vet approved treats that are made for pet consumption. The foods we prepare are often too fatty or too sweet for them to digest properly. Chocolate is a definite no-no! It is toxic to cats and dogs.

Ornaments and holiday decorations can also be dangerous for pets. It may seem funny to watch them play with ribbon or a tree ornament, but the ribbon can be swallowed and clog their intestines. They can wind up in the hospital needing surgery to remove it. It’s both painful for our pets and costly for their owners.

The American Red Cross has put together a safety checklist that can be helpful for you and your pets.

Pet First Aid

Remember that our pets can suffer from things like frostbite and hypothermia just like we can.  Check out the links below for more information about hypothermia in cats and dogs:

• Hypothermia in Cats | Red Cross
• First Aid for Dogs | Red Cross

Taking care of our pets can sometimes seem like a full-time job! They are our fur children, after all. By taking precautions and being aware of things that can cause them harm, we will keep them safe and in good health. Enjoy all that the colder weather offers us, snow, warm, crackling fires and tasty holiday treats… and of course, our beloved fur babies.

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- Written by Caroline Carr