Cold weather poses at least as many risks to our furry friends as hot weather does. For example, you wouldn't leave your pet alone in a car in the summer heat, but in the winter that car can become a refrigerator. It's not a safe place for any animal, especially your pet.
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Baby – it’s getting colder outside. The weather forecast shows temperatures dropping to freezing or below, especially for the next few nights. But your pet is going to be fine, right? After all, it has a fur coat.
Some dogs will do better than others in cold temperatures because of their size, their coat type, their weight, and even their age. Generally a younger, larger, healthy dog, with thick a coat, will handle cold weather better than a small, short-haired animal. A heavier dog will do better than a skinny one, because of the extra insulation.
Cats – known for being able to take care of themselves – are also susceptible to cold weather and can suffer hypothermia in freezing temperatures.
There are ways you can protect your pet when winter weather poses a serious threat. Start by making sure your furry buddy is healthy with a trip to your veterinarian for an annual checkup. Your vet can determine if your best friend has any medical conditions (such as arthritis or heart problems) which could make it more susceptible to the cold.
Limit your pet’s exposure to low temperatures by going for shorter walks with your dog. Invest in a sweater, especially for a smaller dog, to help it stay warm, even indoors.
If your pet (cat or dog) stays outdoors all the time, provide an adequate shelter that is raised a few inches off the ground, with thick, dry bedding. It should be large enough for the animal to turn around inside, and enclosed on all sides except for the door, which should face away from the wind. Offer fresh, unfrozen water regularly.
And before you start your car, bang on the hood and honk the horn to roust any cats that may have sought refuge in the engine compartment – it takes only a few seconds but could prevent a tragedy.
Cold weather can pose a serious risk to our best friends’ health and well-being. It’s up to us to keep them safe and protected in any season, when we’re speaking of pets.
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