Getting your cat or dog ready for winter is crucial as colder weather approaches. Is a leopard-print parka the right choice for your dog this winter? Maybe not the most important decision you will have to make concerning your dog, but as the temperature drops, we do need to prepare our pets for the season. Keep these tips in mind when getting your pet ready to brave the elements.
Dogs and cats rely on us for safety, health, and companionship. Providing these basic needs is always paramount for our pets, but even more so in winter. And although some dogs are better suited for the elements because of breed characteristics, extra precaution should be taken with all pets during the cold weather season.
“It’s essential to think about temperature when it comes to our pets,” said Adam Goldfarb, an issues specialist for the Humane Society of the United States. “Most pet owners use common sense, but some ignore important details when it comes to caring for their pets in winter.”
The Basics
Keeping your pets indoors whenever possible is the easiest measure to take to ensure their safety in winter. Not only is an indoor environment safer for dogs and cats, but it can also enhance their mental state, as well. “Dogs in particular are social animals,” Goldfarb said. “Having them indoors as part of the family is going to be better for their overall health.”
However, if your pet has to remain outside for any period of time, there are some simple measures that you can take to make their habitat more comfortable. Keeping your dog’s outdoor shelter elevated and dry, as well as adding insulation such as hay or straw, will provide extra protection from the cold. Avoid blankets and towels, because they absorb moisture and can create a damp environment.
If you really want to spoil your pet this winter, a heated pet bed can help a dog or cat stay toasty. Throw in a high-tech heated water bowl, and transform your pet’s winter shelter into a luxury hotel.
Precautions
Take caution when using space heaters, because curious pets can get too close and risk getting burned. Toxic fluids in the garage, such as antifreeze, can be enticing to dogs because of their sweet scent, and are poisonous if ingested. Make sure they are kept out of reach.
