Update On: Winterizing for Animals

If you've read my previous post on Winterizing for Animals and my review of the PetSafe Universal Pet Bed Warmer , you know I like to keep people informed about ways to keep their pets happy and healthy during the colder months. The American Animal hospital Association has published a useful article which prompted me to post a few more tips:

Courtesy of  www.scharfelinse.com

• It's a good idea to get your pets a pre-winter check-up with a veterinarian.  Talk to your vet about any concerns your may have about your pet's health, particularly related to cold weather, and ask her or him to evaluate your pet for conditions or ailments that could make them more sensitive to the dangers of cold, ice and snow.
• Keep your animal's physical condition in mind. A cat with asthma or chronic respiratory infections should be watched closely for reactions to cold or extra-dry heated air.  Humidifiers can sometimes help in these cases.  Meanwhile, a dog with arthritis or leg injuries might have a harder time than usual walking on slippery areas or up stairs in the cold.  For vulnerable dogs, on-leash at a slow pace and limited time in the cold is best, and try walking behind them on stairs, just in case. An extra warm and comfy bed could help their joints, too. Your vet should be able to tell you if your pets have any conditions that might make it difficult to control their own body temperature.
  
• Ice is a danger! Not only can it cause slips and injuries, but some animals may try to walk across ice that is not sturdy enough to hold them.  A fall into cold water can be deadly, so be prepared and watch out for your pet and yourself around ponds, lakes and rivers.
• Carbon monoxide hazards may increase in winter.  Have your furnace checked for issues, and make sure you have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home -- both for your animals' safety, and yours!  Heating system leaks and build-ups of exhaust in closed garages from warming up your car can be dangerous or deadly for humans.  Pets can be even more vulnerable to this odorless, colorless gas.
• Avoid burns.  Remember small animals may have sensitive skin, and that fires and hot heater surfaces can even set fur on fire if your pet gets too close.  An accidental nudge from a pet can knock over a space heater or a candle, putting the whole house in danger. Make sure that hot surfaces are protected from your pet, and your pet is protected from them.  Provide a safe way for your critters to stay warm away from high heat.
  
  
  

  

  Courtesy of Fred McDonald

• Remember this rule of thumb: If you're cold, they are, too!  Some animals bred for cold climates, like huskies, can tolerate more cold than a human can.  However, many animals can only tolerate cold and damp as well as we can, or less.  If you're outside with your pet and you get cold, bring your animal friend inside, too.  If you see your animal shivering, becoming lethargic or trying to burrow, make sure you warm him or her up soon. 
• Keep other animals in mind.  Consider donating to your local pet shelter, either financially or with gifts like old blankets, pet beds and warmers.  Ask them what would help, and think about if you have the time to volunteer or foster.  If you see a local animal in a dangerous weather condition and fear for their health, you can contact local authorities, both for strays and pets in your neighbourhood that might be too cold.  You don't have to judge people harshly right a way -- if they don't know that leaving their animal outside for too long is unsafe, you may be more helpful just letting them know.  If they seem negligent, however, the ASPCA has information on how to report abusive or neglectful situations.  Likewise, if you find an injured or orphaned animal suffering in the cold, the National Wildlife Rehabilitator's Association has guidelines on how to get the proper care.

I will keep my eyes peeled for more important winter and holiday tips and products you may find of use and post them here.  If you have any suggestions, feel free to email them to me, too.  I hope these ideas help you and wish you and your animal friends a most excellent winter!