Winter Hazards and Pets

I love winter in Montana, and so do my pets. But winter can be a dangerous time for those who are unprepared for it.

Most pets can't handle the cold. Domestic cats originated in Africa and have no real defenses against harsh winters. Most dogs, except for the thick double-coated breeds that were developed in the arctic, don't have enough fur to survive long outdoors without some assistance from you. Insulated dog houses filled with straw and warm places where your cat can escape the cold weather are a must. Better yet, bring them indoors.

But the cold isn't the only hazard. In wintertime, your car can be a source of woe for your pets. Both antifreeze and windshield washer fluid are incredibly toxic. Keep these poisons out of reach and be sure to have your car mechanic check for any leaks in your radiator or hoses. Better yet, switch to safer antifreeze that is less poisonous and less hazardous to the environment.

The warmth of the car's engine can spell doom to a wayward cat. During the winter, animals seeking warmth may try to crawl on top of the engine beneath the hood. The danger comes when a person returns to the car to start the engine. A cat can become severely maimed or even killed when the fan starts. Before you start your engine, you should check beneath the hood or honk your horn to shoo away a heat-seeking cat.

Ice melt chemicals can be both poisonous to your pet (especially if he licks them off) and dangerous to the environment. Use a safe version of ice melt called Safe Paw™ (available online through www.petco.com) to avoid harming your pets.

With these simple precautions, your pets can have a safe and fun winter.

Reference

Bring Me Home, Dogs Make Great Pets, Margaret H. Bonham, 2005.
Bring Me Home, Cats Make Great Pets, Margaret H. Bonham, 2005.