With extreme cold weather hitting many parts of the U.S. its time to winterize your pets. If left outdoors, pets can be susceptible to frostbite, hypothermia, disorientation, or getting lost.
If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. Keep your animals inside. Don’t leave pets alone in a car during cold weather. Cars can act as refrigerators that hold in the cold.
- Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter. A longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is short-haired, consider getting him a coat with a high collar.
- Winter walks can become downright dangerous if chemicals from ice-melting agents are licked off of bare paws. Bring a towel on walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach to remove ice, salt, and chemicals. Check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes.
- Massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into paw pads before going outside can help protect from salt and chemical agents. Booties provide even more coverage.
- Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts. A cozy pet bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.
