Keep pets indoors
and warm
Don't leave dogs or cats outdoors when the temperature
drops. Regardless of the season, short-haired, very young, or old dogs and all
cats should never be left outside without supervision. Dogs and cats are safer
indoors, except when taken out for exercise. During walks, short-haired dogs
may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater.
No matter what the temperature is, wind chill can threaten a
pet's life. Pets are sensitive to severe cold and are at risk for frostbite and
hypothermia when they are outdoors during extreme cold snaps. Exposed skin on
noses, ears, and paw pads can quickly freeze and suffer permanent damage.
Take precautions if your dog spends a lot of time outside
A dog or cat is happiest and healthiest when kept indoors.
If for some reason your dog is outdoors much of the day, he or she must be
protected by a dry, draft-free shelter 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 waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
Help neighborhood outdoor cats
If there are outdoor cats, either owned pets or community
cats (ferals, who are scared of people, and strays, who are lost or
abandoned pets) in your area, remember that they need protection from the
elements as well as food and water. It's easy to give them a hand.
Give your pets plenty of water
Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the
winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet's water
dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and
water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue
can stick and freeze to metal.
Protect paws from salt
The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can
irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Wipe all paws with a damp towel
before your pet licks them and irritates his/her mouth.
Avoid antifreeze poisoning
Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that
may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze (and all
household chemicals) out of reach. Coolants and antifreeze made with propylene
glycol are less toxic to pets, wildlife, and family.
The best tip of all: keep your pets with you
Probably the best prescription for winter's woes is to keep
your dog or cat inside with you and your family. The happiest dogs are those
who are taken out frequently for walks and exercise, but kept inside the rest
of the time.
Dogs and cats are social animals who crave human
companionship. Your animal companions deserve to live indoors with you and your
family.