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From Animal Humane Society
Keeping Pets Safe During Colder Weather
 As
winter settles in across the state, Animal Humane Society urges
pet owners to think twice when letting pets outside for extended
periods of time. Temperatures below freezing along with wind
chill can prove deadly for our domesticated friends.
The
following are tips to keep your pets safe during the cold winter
months:
Indoor pet tips:
-
During severe weather, dogs should be let out only
to relieve themselves. Cats should be kept indoors
most of the time.
-
Make sure your pet’s bed
is not on the floor in a cold or drafty area of your
home.
- Indoor dogs typically
receive less exercise during cold weather and
therefore may require fewer calories; feed smaller
portions in order to avoid weight gain.
Outdoor pet tips:
- Outdoor pets typically need more food in cold
weather because they must burn more calories to keep
warm.
- Check for frostbite,
especially on paws and ears.
- Make sure your pet’s
water is never frozen.
- Keep an eye out for and
clean up all antifreeze spills—one lick of the
sweet-tasting fluid can be fatal to an animal.
- Cats have been known to
climb onto vehicle engines for warmth; knock on the
hood of your car before starting the engine if you
suspect your cat could be inside.
- Watch for signs of hypothermia—weak pulse, dilated
pupils, decreased heart rate, extreme shivering,
pale or blue mucous membranes, body temperature
below 95 degrees, stupor and unconsciousness.
Consequences of extreme hypothermia may include
neurological problems including coma, heart problems
and kidney failure.
If you have additional questions or concerns about
how to care for your pet in colder temperatures, please check with
your veterinarian.
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