Cpets Need Extra Care In Winter
November 29th, 2008 Posted in Reptile PetsWinter has arrived and many people are taking extra precautions to stay safe. But what about our furry friends? Penny Rounce of the Delta Area Animal Society offered some tips for pet care in winter.
As far as dogs go, Rounce said outside dogs and even dogs who spend a lot of time playing outside should have extra food, especially protein, to keep fur in tip-top shape.
Rounce also recommended not letting dogs outside without a leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm.
“Dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost,” said Rounce. “More dogs are lost during winter than any other season, so make sure yours always wears ID tags.”
Another tip is to thoroughly wipe dogs’ legs and stomach when they come in from outside. Rounce said dogs can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking their paws. It is a good idea to clean between their toes also, as ice can build up and be uncomfortable.
Rounce also cautioned puppies do not tolerate cold as well as adult dogs. This may make them difficult to housebreak during winter. One option is to paper train puppies inside, and if your dog is sensitive to cold for any reason, you should only take him outside to relieve himself.
Rounce said regular, vigorous brushing is a good idea to help maintain a dog’s skin, coat and circulation.
“A thick-coated dog typically needs grooming in cold weather,” said Rounce. “A clean, brushed coat is a warm coat.”
Rounce also advised leaving a longer coat for winter warmth and completely drying dog’s coat after a bath before taking him outside.
Michigan law requires dogs who have to stay outside have shelter, or adequate protection from the elements and weather conditions. Dog houses should be appropriate size, be insulated and have a roof, and dogs should be blocked from wind or drafts, be off the cold ground or floor, and have straw for bedding instead of blankets or towels, which will freeze.
Rounce said it is recommended cats be kept indoors during winter.
“Outdoors, felines can freeze or become lost or injured,” said Rounce, adding the tips of the ears are especially susceptible to frostbite.
Rounce said cats left outside sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars, and when the motor is started, they can be injured or killed by the fan belt.
Tags: adult dogs, animal society, antifreeze, cold ground, cold weather, dangerous chemicals, furry friends, michigan law, paper train, paws, pet care, skin coat, snowstorm, thick coated dog, tip top, weather conditions, winter warmthRelated posts
Tags: adult dogs, animal society, antifreeze, cold ground, cold weather, dangerous chemicals, furry friends, michigan law, paper train, paws, pet care, skin coat, snowstorm, thick coated dog, tip top, weather conditions, winter warmth
