Cold weather has set
in for a while across the country, and we’re sure your families are bundling up
quite well already. You’ve got the warm drinks, warm fireplaces, warm
sweaters…and fortunately your pets come with built-in sweaters as well! Yet
it’s important to keep their health in mind during those colder months and know
what steps you can take to keep them safe and sprightly. This is especially
important for dogs who spend more time outdoors, needing exercise or to use the
bathroom. Cats tend to seek warm shelter inside when the temperatures drop, but
those who prowl outdoors might also apply here.
So what can you do to
help your dogs enjoy the winter weather and stay physically active without
being threatened by the chilly season?
First, consider
taking them in for a vet checkup once or twice during the winter. Some
illnesses or joint conditions in particular can be made worse by regular
exposure to the cold. Even if you get a regular annual checkup, it may help
them stay more comfortable and active if you know the winter is a time to pay
particular attention to their condition.
Second, know your
pets individual limits. Every dog is going to react to winter times
differently, even if they’re perfectly healthy otherwise. This will have to do
with their overall size, body fat levels, the thickness of their fur, and more.
If you have smaller dogs, they may be able to run around more indoors, limiting
their need to go outside at all. Even for larger dogs, though, you might
shorten the length of their walks or times at the dog park just so they don’t
develop a sensitivity.
Third, outdoors time
should be limited overall. Many people have bought into the idea that dog and
cats are more resistant to colder weather than people–that their coats and
padded paws shield them from the main negative effects. However, dogs and cats
are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. Certain breed have
certainly developed the ability to withstand the cold, but even they will
suffer from it if left outdoors too long.
Lastly, whenever your
pet does spend any time outdoors in the winter, whether on a walk or tromping
through the snowy yard, be sure to inspect them when they come back indoors.
Wipe down their paws to remove snow and ice and inspect the pads for potential
damage. Not only does this help reduce injury, but people use more chemicals
such as antifreeze and other toxic substances in the winter that can be
spread along snowy paths and icy roads.
Does your dog or cat enjoy getting out in the snow or do they
prefer to spend most winter days curled up by the fireplace? What do you do to
help them stay active during cold months…while also staying safe from the
chill?
