Winter Safety Tips for Pets

Winter weather can be extremely harsh for everyone. It can be even harsher for your pets if not properly protected. Many pets are a regular part of the family. A family you will want to protect. Here are some safety tips for your pets during cold weather.


Winter Safety Tips for Pets

1.) In the winter time make sure your pet has been provided adequate shelter. They will need protection from the wind, rain, and cold temperatures.

2.) Ensure that your pet has a comfortable shelter. Make sure they and can get into and out of their housing easily and have sufficient room to maneuver or turn around.

3.) Make sure they have plenty of good bedding materials to insulate them from the effects of cold weather. Old rugs, blankets, etc. can be used as excellent bedding materials.

4.) Pets that live outdoors in the winter may need additional food to sustain their body temperature as well. Your pet will most likely need this additional nutritional intake during extremely cold winter weather.

5.) Make sure your pets have fresh water at all times. Make sure the water is not frozen during this time of year. This will prevent them from being properly hydrated. Most animals do not know how to break the ice.

6.) Another winter hazard that is sometimes overlooked is thin ice. If you have any water sources that may freeze over, such as a creek , stream or pond in your area that may have thin layers of ice covering them, make sure to limit your pet’s access to these areas. Remember, thin ice will not hold very much weight.

7.) Use extreme caution and exercise care when using external sources to provide heat for you pets. This can be a dangerous practice if not done safely and may create a fire hazard.

8.) If you live in area where they may be exposed to de-icer solutions or road salts, make sure you clean your pet's feet regularly. Road and highway salts will burn their feet.

9.) Be extremely careful about wet tongues and cold metal. This could cause a severe injury to your pet.

10.) Know and be able to recognize the signs of frostbite or hypothermia in your pets.

Keep your pets safe this winter. They depend on you as much as you depend on them.

Staying above the water line!

Riverwalker