Cold Weather Safety for Dogs and Cats

 

T he average temperature at night in North Carolina during the January month is 27 degrees Fahrenheit.  Most dogs and cats stay inside during the cold nights but here are some helpful tips on how to protect them if they do have to go outside.  

Small dogs and dogs with thin hair coats should wear coats when going outside for walks during very cold temperatures.  The best type of coat should be one that has a high collar and covers from the base of the tail on top to the belly underneath.  Sick or older dogs should only be walked outside to do their business and then they should come right back in.  During winter months, if possible keep pet beds away from cold drafts and make sure older animals have warm cozy beds or blankets to sleep on. 

Here are a few tips if you take your dog on longer walks in the winter months. Some dogs can have dry and sensitive paw pads. These become irritated when walking on cold concrete. You can spray a little cooking spray on your dog’s paw pads just before you take them on a walk. Keep a bucket of warm water and clean cloths by the door for when you get back. You should always wipe down paws when coming back from a walk. This will get any chemicals off paws that were picked up during the walk. Make sure to clean any snow or ice out of your pet’s paws also when they get back so their feet do not become irritated. 

 

Please remember that antifreeze and the salt that melts sidewalk ice is extremely toxic to animals. Pay very close attention to what your pet is doing while outside and do not let them drink any melted snow or water.

The winter months can be a great time for animals. Remembering the above safety tips can make sure great months do not turn into deadly months. 

Submitted by Beth Bardell, TVRH