Baby It’s Cold Outside: A Guide to Keeping Your Pet Safe in Cold Weather
The change in weather affects our pets just as much as it impacts us. Pets are sensitive to changes in temperature, and certain breeds are more affected than others. When you think of cold weather dogs, Huskies, Great Pyrenees, Saint Bernards, and Bernese Mountain Dogs come to mind. What do these breeds have in common? Fur and lots of it. So how do we protect our dogs that were not built for the snow and frigid temperatures? In this blog, we will share effective ways to keep your pet safe during cold weather, ensuring they remain happy and healthy throughout the season.
1. Keep Your Pets Indoors
I don’t know about you, but when the temperatures drop, I’m staying in, curled up with a blanket and a hot drink—and my pets usually snuggled up with me. Keeping your pets inside is the simplest and most effective way to ensure they stay warm. Our homes provide a warm and safe environment that shields pets from harsh winter elements. Make sure your pet has a cozy space inside where they can sleep that is away from drafts and cold floors. A warm blanket or pet bed in a warm room can make a big difference in keeping your pet comfortable.
2. Dress Them Appropriately
Why is it that when the temperatures drop outside, I have an ongoing fight with my children to wear their jackets? I hope I’m not alone. But thankfully, my dog associates her jacket with outside playtime and fun! Not all pets are built for cold weather. Short-haired, small, or elderly pets may need extra help staying warm when they go outside. A sweater or coat designed specifically for pets can provide that extra layer of insulation they need. You should ensure the clothing fits well and covers the pet’s torso while still allowing them to move freely.
Booties are also extremely important in regions that have ice and snow. Salt used to melt ice on the ground can cause trauma between the toes, cuts, chemical burns and even dehydration if they lick their salty paws. Boots with good traction and rubber soles can be used to help protect the paws. (Plus, if you ever need a good laugh, watch a dog walk with boots on for the first time!)
3. Monitor Outdoor Time
Just as limiting outdoor time is encouraged during hot summer months, pet parents should adhere to similar guidelines during the cold winter season. Dogs can develop hypothermia and frostbite if left outside too long in the cold, especially the smaller and thin-haired breeds. In temperatures below freezing, you should limit your dog’s time outside to 10-15 minutes, ideally enough time for a potty break and a quick sniff around. Larger dogs, particularly those with long hair or thick double coats, tend to be more tolerant of cold weather. However, no pet should be left unattended outside for extended periods in the cold. When outside, watch your pet for signs of cold, such as whining, shivering, anxiety, weakness, slowing down, or seeking shelter. If you notice any of these behaviors, bring them inside immediately to warm up. One simple rule of thumb to follow is if it’s too cold for you, it’s likely is too cold for your pet.
4. Check Under the Hood
A warm vehicle engine can be an appealing heat source for outdoor and feral cats, but it can be deadly. Before turning on your engine, check under the car, bang on the hood, and honk the horn to encourage feline hitchhikers to abandon their post under the hood.
5. Avoid Potential Toxins
Ethylene glycol, the main ingredient in most automotive antifreeze products, is highly toxic to pets. Its sweet taste often attracts dogs and cats, but even a small amount can cause severe poisoning due to its narrow safety margin. To protect your pets, promptly clean up any spills or leaks and store antifreeze containers securely out of reach. Remember, antifreeze poisoning can also occur if pets drink from a toilet with winterized pipes. If you suspect your pet has ingested any amount of antifreeze, contact your veterinarian or poison control immediately. Quick action is essential, as dogs need treatment within 8-12 hours for the antidote to be effective.
As the seasons change and cold weather comes in, it’s important to remember that outdoor time is important while maintaining a safe awareness of our surroundings. We hope you and your pet enjoy a wonderful winter wonderland this season by following these pet safety tips.
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