Tips for Colder Weather - Part Two

Here is Part Two of my series about keeping pets safe in colder weather.  Part Three will be a post about keeping pets safe around the holidays.

1.  Don't shave your pet in the winter.  They need their coats to stay warm!

2.  If your pet gets cold despite having a full coat (not uncommon), consider using a coat or sweater.  Not all animals like to wear clothing, so it's important to get them used to it gradually.  Put on the coat, give them a treat, and take it off.  Gradually increase the length of time your pet is wearing the coat, and always pair it with something particularly yummy, to create a good association -- putting on the coat predicts a delicious treat!

3.  Consider booties for your dog to protect his or her feet from snow and ice.  As with coats, make sure to gradually get your dog used to wearing them.

4.  Sick or older pets are particularly sensitive to the cold.  Make sure they are only outside when absolutely necessary, and provide them with warm, comfy places to sleep.

5.  De-icing and ice melting products can be toxic.  Be sure to keep them sealed and out of the reach of your pets.

6.  Vehicles can act as a refrigerator in cold weather by holding the cold inside.  Be very cautious about leaving your pets in your vehicle during cold weather.

7.  Pets can lose scent in snow and ice and get lost -- make sure your pet has identification, such as tags and a tattoo and/or microchip so that if he or she gets lost, it is easier for them to be reunited with you.

8.  If your pet is out in the cold and starts to shiver or shake, get them back into a warm sheltered place immediately.  If you suspect hypothermia, contact your vet immediately.

9.  Beware of frozen lakes and ponds -- they are not always frozen all the way through, and pets can fall through the ice.

10.  Arthritis is worse in cold and damp weather, so if you suspect your pet has arthritis, see your vet.  Take special care to handle a pet with arthritis (or suspected arthritis) gently, avoid icy walks, provide soft and warm bedding, and give any medications that your vet prescribes.

11.  Be careful of having portable heaters -- they can be a hazard.  Pets can burn themselves or knock the heaters over, risking a fire.

12.  Dogs should not be riding unsecured in the backs of pickup trucks at the best of times -- it is unsafe and is often contrary to local laws.  In colder weather, it is particularly dangerous, due to the possibility of wind chill and the slippery conditions in the bed of the truck.  And think about how you would feel, standing on cold metal in the cold!

Keep your pets safe and warm and healthy during the colder weather;  they are part of the family!