COLD WEATHER

PAWSITIVELY HELPFUL PET TIPS

WITH Dr. Deb

"COLD WEATHER"

~PETS THAT SLEEP INDOORS AT NIGHT ARE NOT ACCLIMATED TO BE OUTDOORS for extended periods when the temperatures are below freezing.  Wind chill must be considered, as well.

~If pets must remain outdoors in cold conditions for brief periods, SHELTERS that provide a warm, dry area out of the wind are essential.  INSULATED HOUSES OR DOG IGLOOS, preferably with small entrances and flap- type door, bedded with STRAW OR WOOD SHAVINGS, are ideal.  The house should NOT BE TOO LARGE--just tall enough for dogs to stand up in and toward the small side if meant for multiple outdoor cats.  Blankets easily become wet/frozen compared to shavings or straw.  Bales of hay or straw can also be stack around a dog house to provide additional insulation and wind protection.

~HEATED MATS OR PADS can be placed inside the dog house if you dog can be trusted around electrical cords.

~DOG (or cat) COATS OR SWEATERS are a good idea when short haired breeds are out for winter play or walks, but be sure they are waterproof if your pet will be outdoors for extended periods.  A wet sweater soaked through can be worse than no sweater at all.

~YOUNG ANIMALS have less cold tolerance than adults-- never leave puppies outdoors in cold conditions.

~HEATED WATER BOWLS are recommended to provide an unfrozen  drinking source.

~If SEVERE WEATHER ALERTS are issued recommending that humans remain indoors, it is a good idea to bring your pet inside as well.

~During the winter, OUTDOOR CATS SOMETIMES SLEEP UNDER THE HOODS OF CARS.  When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt.  If there are outdoor cats in your area, bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give the cat a chance to escape.

~NEVER LEAVE YOUR PET ALONE IN A VEHICLE DURING COLD WEATHER.  A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold causing an animal to freeze to death.

Have fun this winter season and stay warm, you and your pets!