The Weather Outside is Frightful...But a Warm Pet is so Delightful

The harsh winter weather set in this week in Riverhead with many of us pulling out our heavy jackets and bundling up.  But what about the animals in our lives?  How does the cold weather affect them and what can we do to help them deal with the harsh conditions? 

Here's a top five list of things you can do to make sure your pets are safe and warm this winter.

1.  Bring your pets inside or set up a warm place for them outside during freezing temperatures.

Just like humans, pets can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite.  When the weather is below freezing, you should not leave your pets outside for extended periods of time.  Veterinarians often recommend that you bring your pets inside.  However, if that is not an option for you, set up a warm shelter for them outside.  Make sure the pets have a suitable house or other form of shelter to go into and inside that shelter, make sure to have blankets and/or straw set up for added warmth.

2. Have plenty of fresh water and food for your pets.

One way animals keep warm in the winter is by eating more.  So don't be surprised if your pet's food bag runs empty a little earlier than normal.  If you keep a water bowl outside for your pet, keep a close watch on it.  There is a good chance that the water in the bowl will freeze, leaving your pet without the hydration that they need.   You may need to refill the bowl several times a day to make sure that your pets have the water they need.

3.  Keep an eye out for antifreeze spills and snow removal chemicals and salt.

Even a small amount of antifreeze can be lethal to your pet.  So, if you have a spill, make sure to clean it up immediately.  The majority of salts put down on sidewalks and roads after a snowstorm as well as other snow removal chemicals can be painful for your animals.  Cuts and infections caused by snow, ice, and the rock salt can create a real problem.  To help prevent this problem, examine your pet's paws after they come in from playing outside.  If need be, run warm water over their paws to ensure that any chemicals are removed.   You can also buy pet safe rock salt at your local pet store for your own home's walkways.

4.   Get your pet a sweater.

You don't like to put your pet in clothes.  I get it.  But when your short hair, 14 lb. cat is in 8-degree weather, do you think that she might want a little protection against the wind?  Or what about when a foot of snow drops into your front yard and your little one has to go to the bathroom – do you think he deserves a little protection against the wet and cold?  A sweater or pet snowsuit is the perfect answer.  I've heard my Barnum's teeth chatter.  I've felt his body shiver against the cold, and I know he's appreciative when I put his sweater on him.

5.  Give your pets extra love.

Nothing warms us in the winter months like a hug.  Give your pets hugs this winter, belly rubs are good to and extra playtime is even better.  All of these things keep your pets active and moving, helping to build up their body warmth. 

We of course love our animals and want them to be happy and healthy.  Follow these tips, and your pets should be just fine this winter.