It is that time of year again.... freezing temperatures and potential
hazardous conditions for our pets. I hope these winter pet care tips are
useful to you.
FROSTBITE:
The number one pet hazard in winter months. Please keep
your cats indoors when the temp drops below freezing. Dogs can stay
outside generally to temps down to 25 F if they are already accustomed to
the cold.
ADEQUATE SHELTER:
Remember to insulate dog houses with straw, not
blankets or towels which hold moisture when they get wet. Cedar or pine
shavings are not recommended due to allergies. All dog houses MUST have
a flap over the door to keep the wind and precipitation out...this is
critical to insure warmth inside the house.
ANTIFREEZE:
I mentioned this last month but will mention it again
because it is such a danger to our pets. One ounce can be fatal to a
small dog or cat. Clean up any antifreeze leaks from your car
immediately and make sure not to leave old antifreeze in a place that is
accessible to your pet.
ROCK SALT:
Salt used to melt ice and snow can cause irritation to pet
footpads. Baby oil protects your pets feet from the salt. Apply a small
amount if you plan to walk your pet this winter. Clean the feet well
before coming back inside the house.
TOENAILS:
Become long this time of year due to decreased exercise . It
is a good idea to trim them more often in the winter...generally every
month or two.
DIET:
Increase your pets caloric intake if he or she stays outside this
time of year...they will need it to produce extra body heat. Indoor dogs
should generally eat less during the winter (sorry Marty, Spunky and all
our other lap puppy patients!)
DEHYDRATION:
Be sure to break away any ice that has formed in the water
bowls overnight. Porcelain bowls are better to prevent tongues from
sticking to cold metal bowls.
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS:
Ingested pine needles can puncture the
intestines. Keep breakable ornaments, yarn, tinsel, and ribbons hung
high on the tree out of our pets reach. Many people also anchor their
christmas tree to a wall with a strong cord or rope to prevent tipping by
curious kitties.
HOLIDAY PLANTS:
Such as holly, mistletoe, and poinsettas are poisonous
when eaten. The website www.library.uiuc.edu/vex/toxic/toxic.htm has a
comprehensive list of toxic plants with very nice photos. The site is
maintained by the University of Illinois and is very useful for pet owners.
WARM CAR ENGINES:
Are prime places for outdoor cats to sleep at
night. Honk your horn before starting your car in the AM if you own a
cat or if their are cats living in your neighborhood. This does not
apply to my neighbors when I am sleeping in late on my day off !!! :)
Since my hyperlinks did not work last time, I am listing them again for
you. I have put together the "BEST OF THE PET NET" for you to surf at
your leisure:
