Cold Winter Pet Care Tips for Your Dogs and Cats

The cold season is upon us; winters can be particularly harsh in many areas of the country. Our pets depend on us for everything and caring for them during the months of cold, sleet, and snow requires preparation and knowledge. Consider the pet species, age, and breed in mind. A common sense approach will help. A husky will tolerate cold better than a dachshund. Here are useful tips on pet care during the winter season:

• The pet’s diet may have to be changed to give it the necessary calories for fighting cold. Consult a vet on the subject. This is particularly important if the animal is used to or needs outdoor activity. The pet should have a supply of fresh water available at all times; a heated pet bowl will give your pet a supply of fresh water at all times.
• Shelter is one of the most important factors to consider for the three – four months of cold season. Regardless of whether the animal is kept inside or outside the house it should have easy access to a dry and insulated space. Use a deep layer of straw and heated floor mats but avoid electric lamps as these are fire hazards. Provide it with a warm blanket.
• Chemical ice melts and antifreeze are poisonous for your pet dog and cat. Brush and wipe your pet clean when it comes in from the cold outside, do this before it settles down to lick its fur and paws.
• Old, infirm, and arthritic pets need particular care during the cold. Ditto for puppies and kittens. Arthritis can rear its head in older and overweight pets. Young dogs may have to be toilet-trained inside the house. Be prepared for such a contingency.
• If your pet is short-haired, consider getting it a sweater. Avoid shearing off the coat of long-haired pets, the coat helps keep the cold out. Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. When you bathe your dog in the colder months, be sure to completely dry him before taking him out for a walk. Own a short-haired breed? Consider getting him a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly. For many dogs, this is regulation winter wear.
• Try to be with your pets when they step out, keep your pet dog on leash. They can lose a scent trail easily in the cold. If the animal shows signs of discomfort, whines or shivers then get it back home fast. The extremities such as paws, tail tip, ears are susceptible to frostbite. Dry these upon coming home. Remember, frostbite is not obvious immediately.
• Winter hazards include ponds and water bodies that have frozen over but there is no telling how thick the layer of ice is; indoor fires at the fireplace and electric heaters can singe fur.