Cold Weather Pet Safety Tips

Each year as the really cold weather begins, it’s important to know how to protect our pets. Ensure your cats and dogs are kept safe and warm by following these cold weather pet safety tips from Fisher Glen Animal Hospital!

Keep Your Pets Inside

People often wonder what temperature is too cold to leave a cat or dog outside overnight. However as a general rule, cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. Many believe that because of their fur, pets will be okay. Unfortunately, this isn’t always true. Although some thick-coated breeds such as Huskies and Great Pyrenees dogs are more tolerant of colder climates, in general our pets are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia just like us, and they can freeze to death. Remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet!

Take Care of Their Paws

Make sure to check your pet’s paws frequently for signs of cold-weather damage such as cracked paw pads or bleeding. Ice, salt, and antifreeze can all cause injury or damage to your pet’s feet. Additionally, be sure to wipe off your dog’s feet with a towel after your walks. This will prevent them from licking it off and becoming sick. If he/she will tolerate it, dog boots can also be great during the cold weather!

Watch Out for Spills

Antifreeze has a sweet taste which can attract pets, but it will cause serious illness or death if ingested. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from around your vehicle. Keep the bottle someplace where your pets cannot access it.

Keep Their Coat Warm

Refrain from shaving your pet down to the skin in the Winter time; a longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog has a naturally short coat, consider a dog/puppy sweater to keep them warm during long walks.

Keep Up With Flea and Tick Prevention

Remember, your dog still needs protection from fleas and ticks in the wintertime! Fleas may survive the winter in porches or garages, and tick exposure can still occur on mild winter days.

Remember To Social Distance

Above all, don’t forget to social distance during your walks to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Have fun and stay safe out there, and if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us today!

You can also check out our Veterinary Services section to learn more about everything we do here at Fisher Glen. And as always if you have any questions or would like to book an appointment with Fisher Glen Animal Hospital, please don’t hesitate to Contact Us Today!