Pets Face Winter Dangers, Too

Sandy Davis, Public Relations Director for Woodford Humane Society wants to remind you of some pet care guidelines to follow during the cold weather:

"Staying warm isn’t easy while our Kentucky temperatures are dipping into the low teens! You may think that because your pets have fur, they’re better protected from the cold. But, remember, your pets are used to being inside, just like you, and they are not any more prepared than you are to be out in the cold for long periods of time!

 

There are so many things to think about for our pets’ safety during the winter. Water left in bowls quickly freezes into hard blocks of ice. Empty metal food containers left outside will still attract your pet, but their tongue can stick to the frozen metal. Cold temperatures deplete your pet’s energy as their bodies naturally try to stay warm, so those that spend a lot of time outdoors require more food.

Regardless of the temperature, we still need to walk our dogs daily to give them the exercise they need. Today, it’s easy to find warm and wonderful dog sweaters in a variety of colors and sizes to keep your dog warm, just check your favorite pet store.

 

Snow and ice can lodge in the pads of pet paws and is very painful for them. It’s not just snow and ice that paws need protection from: antifreeze is deadly! Sadly, the poison has as an attractive taste for pets so wipe up any spills and store it in a safe place. Consider using an antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol, which, if swallowed in small amounts, will not cause as much harm to pets or your family. Produces such as ice melts and salts can stick to paws and ingested when the pets lick their paws. Wipe paws with a damp cloth when they come inside, even if it’s not a wet day, as chemicals remain on the ground and can still cause harm. Waterproof pet booties can be found, also, at pet supply stores.

 

Short winter days means it’s dark when we get home from work. Walking pets in the dark poses dangers for both you and your pets. Depending on the number of dogs you walk, juggling a flashlight may not be easy, or safe. Most sporting good stores carry head lamps or small lights that can clip to a ball cap. Both can provide plenty of light for you and keep your hands free to hold the leash. Reflective vests, collars and leashes can be life saving, allowing drivers to spot you and avoid an accident!

 

If is bitterly cold, try more frequent, shorter walks to keep your dog exercised and all of you safe from wind burn and over exposure.

 

We hope your dogs and cats live inside with you as they are, indeed, a part of your family. They want and need to be with you. Dogs and cats are companion animals and are happiest, healthiest and safest when they are in your home. If you absolutely can’t bring your pet inside, then you must provide them with waterproof, draft-free shelter which allows them to sit and lie down comfortably but it should be small enough to help them retain their body heat. This shelter needs to be off the ground with comfortable bedding. Also, be certain this outdoor housing provides protection from the wind. If your pet is outdoors, we reiterate, you must frequently check their water bowls as they will, indeed, freeze and your pet will not be able to get water.

 

There is good news: our days are now getting longer and before we know it, we, and our pets, will be able to enjoy being outside again! Until then, stay warm and safe!

 

For more pet safety tips or to meet adoptable animals, visit our Adoption Center located at 265 Thomas Lane in Versailles. We open every day at noon.

Stay tuned for more information from Woodford Humane Society's Spay/Neuter Day in February!