8 Winter Safety Tips for Dogs and Cats

Our pets are important to most of us and we want to take great care of them. As winter weather worsens, here are 8 tips to ensure health and safety for beloved canine or feline companions.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #1: Protect Your Dog or Cat from the Elements

Although the best method of protection for most dogs is to keep them indoors in cold weather, a dry, draft-free shelter can be used for outdoor type dogs. If your dog is housed outside, take extra care to make certain he is comfortable and can get into and out of his housing easily. A dog house that is too large, however, will not retain enough heat.

Several major pet stores carry heated floor mats and warm bedding. A thick layer of straw or hay can also be a good insulator. Blankets are not recommended, as they tend to get wet and freeze. You should designate an area where they can come inside to warm up, such as a garage or laundry room. That could work well for animals that don't normally come inside.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #2: Keep Adequate Water

Water remains an important issue in extremely cold weather. It can freeze within an hour outside when the temperatures drop below freezing. Many pet stores have heated bowls for water and food. Plastic tends to be the best, and deeper bowls usually retain fresh water longer before freezing occurs.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #3: Maintain Grooming for the Season

It makes sense; if you normally have their hair rather short, allow them to grow it a little longer during the winter for extra protection.

Snow can get lodged between dogs' toes and freeze, causing pain and discomfort Trim the hair between the toes and keep the nails cut short to make it easier for dogs to walk in icy areas and to prevent accidents.

Be mindful of roadways that might have been salted and wash dogs' paws when retuning home. Salt has a drying effect and can irritate the paws.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #4: Remove Chemical Hazards

Ethylene glycol based antifreeze is deadly to dogs, cats and other creatures. Make sure that it's not left out in the open and keep containers tightly capped. Wipe up any spills right away and you can also use products made with propylene glycol as an alternative.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #5: Be Aware of Dangerous Resting Places

Many cats will look for convenient warm spots to rest. Some have discovered that vehicles provide comfortable areas, particularly wheel-wells or engine compartments. Banging on the hood before you start the car is not a bad idea.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #6: Be Mindful of Existing Pet Ailments that Could be Exacerbated

Cold, damp weather aggravates existing conditions in pets, such as arthritis, especially in older or overweight animals. Pet stores and veterinarians can provide natural and medicinal treatments for a number of conditions.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #7: Animal Clothing

If it is extraordinarily cold, animal coats or sweaters can help. These items, of course, can be purchased in pet stores, and there are different styles and varieties that would be sure to suit your furry companion. Remember, however, to remove the animal's garment in the house, especially if your house is warm. Otherwise, the pet may become too hot and this would become evident by panting. There are also boots available for animals, but they can be difficult to keep on.

Winter Pet Safety Tip #8: Use Reminders, Check on Them, Don't Leave Them Unattended

Many local TV news and radio media fortunately notify the public when the weather is so cold that it would be recommended to bring your pets indoors. At least, check for signs of hypothermia or frost bite. Pets are like children, and should not be left unattended, especially in cold weather when unexpected dangers can arise.