Since we are in the depth of winter complete with
heavy snow to be followed by freezing temperatures, I wanted to give you a few
tips on things to look out for in order to keep your pet’s safe.
Salting for snow and ice: Many of the
chemicals used to keep sidewalks and roads safe can be toxic to dogs. Toxicity
is best avoided by cleaning paws after a walk so they don’t lick off the
chemicals once you get home. If you will be salting your own property choose a
product that specifies it is pet friendly. You can also use booties such as the PAWZ Dog boots which
are disposable and waterproof – that’s only if your dog tolerates them.
Freezing temperatures: I think this shouldn’t need to be said but keep your pets inside
when it gets cold. If the thermostat dips below 40 degrees Fahrenheit bring
outside dogs inside. If you have a shorthaired dog it is a good idea to keep
them warm on walks with a toasty jacket or sweater. Animals are susceptible to
frostbite and hypothermia just like us so please protect them.
Indoor/Outdoor Cats: Cats should always
be kept inside to protect them from trauma and diseases but if you do have an
indoor/outdoor cat don’t let them out in cold and inclement weather. Cats will often seek warmth by crawling
up onto the engine block of a car.
This is a really bad scene if the cat is still curled up in there when
the car is started.
Orthopedic Injury: Dogs love running
through the deep snow and don’t give much thought to racing across an icy patch
of terrain. Owners must be careful
when letting pups run free as they can easily pull a muscle or slip and
fall. Another danger is when ice
and snow accumulate between furry toes causing cuts or irritation.
Rodenticide: The cold weather drives rats and mice into our homes and without
question this is undesirable. In an effort to get rid of these unwanted
visitors many people will put out poison in the house and around the property.
Keep this in mind, rodenticides don’t just kill rodents, they will kill any
mammal that ingests it. Most rat poison is formulated to be tasty, attracting
both rodents and our pets. If you must put a rodenticide make sure your animals
can’t get to it, remembering that the crafty rodent often will move the poison.
Antifreeze: This common chemical has a sweet taste so dogs and cats are actually
attracted to it. If you are unaware your pet was exposed, by the time clinical
signs become apparent it is often too late for treatment. The other nasty thing
about antifreeze is that a tiny amount is all it takes to cause irreversible damage
resulting in death. Avoid this by monitoring your pets at all times when
outside your home.
I hope this information helps you and your pets
enjoy the winter!
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