Winter Safety Tips For Pet Owners

By Tanjua Damon

Winter months can be grueling – dressing in layers, warming the car, shoveling, all can be a hassle. But the winter season can also have a grueling effect on family pets. There are safety tips pet owners can remember during winter to apply to their pets.

Cold temperatures and conditions can be hazardous to the family pet. Keeping your pet outside for long periods of time is not recommended during winter. Frigid temperatures and precipitation can put your pet in dangerous situations.

If pets have to be left outside, making sure they have a secure structure is important, according to Newtown Animal Clinic veterinarian Neal Warner. Outside structures should be out of the way of wind, snow, sleet, and rain. The structure should be raised off the ground a little and be insulated.

Dr Warner also recommended that pet owners should feed their animals more to provide more calories for their pets. During the winter, pets use more calories to keep warm.

If your pet’s water source is outside, the water should be checked frequently for freezing. Water is still important for pets during the winter.

Outdoor exposure can take a toll on pets also, according to Dr Warner. When children go outside during the winter, they put on coats, hats, and mittens. Pets need the same consideration if they are going to be outside for long periods of time.

Puppies, kittens, and short-haired animals cannot maintain their body heat as well as older or longhaired animals, according to Dr Warner. Puppies, kittens, and shorthaired animals should wear coats or sweaters.

Frostbite can affect an animal’s feet, tail, or tips of the ears. Pet owners should pay attention to those areas during the winter and call their veterinarian if they believe their pet has frostbite.

Antifreeze is another pet hazard, according to Dr Warner. The sweet smell and taste attracts animals to the fluid, but can be fatal if your pet consumes even small amounts of antifreeze.

Snow, ice, and salt can get caught in your animal’s pads, according to Dr Warner. Pet owners should frequently check their pets’ feet and make sure they do not become irritated.

With winter here, this is just a reminder to pet owners to keep a watchful eye on the conditions for the safety of family pets.