WASHINGTON — The HSUS is urging pet owners to take a few common
sense precautions to safe guard their pets against bitter cold
temperatures.
Despite their “fur” coats, domesticated animals like cats
and dogs depend on humans for protection from elements such as
freezing temperatures. The HSUS is offering the following
suggestions to help keep all pets safe through the cold winter
months.
* Don't leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops below
freezing. Dogs need outdoor exercise but take care not to keep
them out for lengthy periods during very cold weather.
Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater
during walks. Dogs and cats are safer indoors in all sorts of
weather. Animals should never be left outdoors unattended as
they risk being stolen or otherwise being harmed.
* Wind-chill can threaten a pet's life, no matter what the
temperature. Outdoor dogs must be protected by a dry,
draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to
sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in
his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off
the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house
should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway
should be covered with a flap of heavy waterproof fabric or
heavy plastic.
* Pets spending a lot of time outdoors need more food in the
winter. Keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your
pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and not
frozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal;
when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and
freeze to metal.
* Warm car engines are dangerous for cats and small
wildlife. Parked cars attract small animals who may crawl up
under the hood looking for warmth. To avoid injuring any hidden
animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them away before
starting your engine.
* De-icing chemicals are hazardous. The salt and other
chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of
your pet's feet. Wipe the feet with a damp towel every time
after coming in from outdoors – even if you don’t see salt on
walkways.
* Antifreeze is a deadly poison. However, it has a sweet
taste that attracts animals and children. Wipe up spills and
store antifreeze out of reach. Better yet, use
antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in
small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or people.
The HSUS is the nation's largest animal protection
organization with over seven million members and constituents.
The HSUS is a mainstream voice for animals, with active
programs in companion animals, wildlife and habitat protection,
animals in research and farm animals and sustainable
agriculture. For nearly 50 years, The HSUS has protected all
animals through legislation, litigation, investigation,
education, advocacy and field work. The non-profit organization
is based in Washington, DC and has 10 regional offices across
the country.
