As tough as the bitter cold temperatures and frigid winds of winter are on us, they can be even tougher on pets. "A lot of owners think that because their pets have fur coats, they can more easily endure the cold weather," says Stephanie Shain, director of outreach for Companion Animals at The HSUS. But that's not necessarily the case. Dogs and cats are domesticated animals, and are as accustomed to the warm shelter of the indoors as we are.
So when the mercury drops, follow these guidelines to help protect your pets.
INS AND OUTS OF WINTER
Letting dogs outside to run around and exercise is important to their health and happiness. During the cold winter months, though, you need to take some precautions. First, decide when cold is too cold. A good rule of thumb: Long-haired dogs can play outside for short periods of time when it's above 20°F; short-haired dogs, young pups, and elderly dogs should wait until the mercury rises to 40°F.
"Cats, on the other hand, will live longer and healthier lives if they remain safely confined and supervised all of the time—regardless of the season," says Shain. If your cat has been allowed outdoors before, however, Shain suggests that winter is the perfect time to transition your furry friend to being an indoor-only cat.
BUNDLE UP
When your dog does venture outside for a walk or to play, keep him or her covered from head to paw. Invest in a doggie coat or sweater—especially for your short-haired pet, recommends Shain. You may also want to consider covering sensitive paws with booties. Another tip: Keep your pet well-groomed—matted fur is not very efficient at insulating. And while your pets are outside, keep a close eye on them. If you see shivering, it's time to come in. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, animals are vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia in less than an hour.
MORE SUSTENANCE, BETTER HEALTH
Dogs who spend time running around outside in the cold may need more food than usual. That's because they burn extra energy to keep warm. You should also always have fresh water available when they come in. If you put a dish outside, use a plastic one, instead of aluminum—animals' tongues can stick to cold metal—and make sure the water is clear of ice.
WATCH FOR HIDDEN DANGERS
Some of winter's less obvious hazards come not from the cold, but from what we do to fight it. The rock salt and chemicals we use to melt snow on pavement can burn and chafe padded paws. Wipe your dog's feet down with a warm, damp towel whenever he or she comes in from outside.
Antifreeze is another concern. It tastes sweet, but "a teaspoon is enough to kill your pets," warns Shain. "If they get even a couple of licks, they need to get to the veterinarian immediately." Make sure to check regularly under your car and clean up any pools of the green liquid that may be forming. Better yet, look for pet-friendly antifreeze that isn't fatal if swallowed in small amounts and that contains a bittering agent.
Then there's the lure of a warm engine for a cold animal. Slap your car's hood before starting the car to make sure no shivering animals have sought refuge there.
Winter can be hard on our animal friends, and it takes more than love to keep them warm and safe. With these suggestions your pets will be welcoming the warm weather again in good health.
–By Gillian Aldrich
