Tips To Keep Your Pets Warm And Safe
As temperatures dip well below freezing this week, the Humane Society of Utah urges pet owners to make sure their animals stay safe against frigid conditions.
Not only are there dangers from the harsh winter elements, but the cold season also ushers in the use of a number of chemicals that can be harmful and even deadly to animals. However, the following tips can help safeguard pets against winter hazards.
Outdoor dogs should be in an elevated structure to protect them from the weather, with clean, dry bedding materials. However, if possible HSU recommends bringing dogs indoors – especially pups and older animals.
Bring cats indoors.
Thoroughly wipe off a pet’s legs and stomach when they come in out of the sleet, snow or ice. They can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous ice melting chemicals while licking their paws.
Check paw pads for small cuts and cracks as snow, ice and salt can cause paw injuries.
Dogs spending more time outdoors may need more food. And always make sure they have an adequate amount of fresh, unfrozen water.
Keep dogs on a leash, especially during storms.
Keep I-D tags updated. More pets are lost during the winter because they lose their scent due to the ice and snow.
Go to the vet for a checkup since cold weather can make certain conditions worse.
Photo by Guinnevere Shuster