• No matter what the temperature, wind-chill can threaten a
pet's life. A dog or cat is happiest and healthiest when kept
indoors. If it is necessary to keep your dog outdoors even for a
short period of time, however, he/she must be protected by a
dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog
to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in
his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off
the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house
should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway
should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
Please remember it is always better for any dog to regularly
live indoors and have regular, supervised exercise outdoors. •
Don't leave dogs outdoors when the temperature drops. Most dogs,
and all cats, are safer indoors, except when taken out for
exercise. Regardless of the season, short-coated, very young, or
old dogs and all cats should never be left outside without
supervision. Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing
a sweater during walks.
• Pets should never be left alone outdoors because of
the many dangers involved. Pets who spend any amount of time
outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm
depletes energy. Routinely check your pet's water dish to make
certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and
water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your
pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal.
• Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small
wildlife, who may then crawl up under the hood. To avoid
injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car's hood to scare
them away before starting your engine.
• The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and
ice can irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Wipe the feet with
a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates his/her
mouth.
• Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet
taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and
store antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach.
Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol;
if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife,
or your family.
Probably the best prescription for winter's woes is to keep
your dog or cat inside with you and your family. The happiest
dogs are those that are taken out frequently for walks and
exercise but kept inside the rest of the time. Dogs and cats are
social animals that crave human companionship. Your animal
companions deserve to live indoors with you and your family! |
