Winter can pose very real safety hazards for your pets. By being aware and following these tips you can protect your pets health, plus some of these tips can help people get through winter too!
- Use a humidifier in your apartment. Winter air is drying for everyone, pets included!
- Wash and towel dry your pets feet and belly after being in the snow, pay attention to your pets feet, especially in-between the toes. Check for cracks or redness in the paws. Make sure to remove any snow/ice, salt and chemicals.
- Bathe your pets as little as possible during cold spells. Washing too often can remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If your pooch must be bathed, ask your vet to recommend a moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse.
- Apply petroleum jelly into paw pads before going outside. This can help protect against exposure to ice melting products your pet will come into contact with when outdoors.
- Booties are another option to protect paws provide even more coverage and can also prevent salt/ice melt from getting lodged between toes.
- Beware of antifreeze, it is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Thoroughly clean up any antifreeze spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.
- Feed your pet a little more during the cold weather months – animals burn more calories just trying to stay warm.
- Drink plenty of water – this applies to humans as well because winter weather is dry.
- A Warm bed, off the floor and away from all drafts. Who doesn’t prefer cozy?
