The only constant thing about Louisiana winters is change. Fluctuations in temperature and precipitation can leave us all a little underprepared to help our pets. Even though we don’t have arctic conditions here, cold weather precautions are still important to uphold winter pet safety in Slidell.
The Golden Rule
The best way to approach winter pet safety is to gauge how cold it feels to them. Generally, if it’s too cold for you to be outside comfortably, it is too cold for pets. The assumption that a pet’s fur coat protects them from the elements can only go so far. Many pets, except thick-coated large breed dogs, are sensitive to the cold and aren’t insulated from the rain or wind.
Gearing Up
Pet owners can protect their pets from the cold weather by providing warm, protective clothing like jackets, vests, or sweaters. Waterproof boots can protect their feet from the chill, but can also ward off antifreeze and other common winter chemicals found in puddles.
Keeping It Short
A great way to maintain winter pet safety is by offering numerous short breaks to go outside throughout the day. Keeping their bathroom breaks or exercise times short means they are less vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite in freezing conditions.
Wash their paws off when they get back inside and apply a soothing balm to guard against drying, cracking paw pads. Bathing too often during winter can actually have a drying effect on the skin. However, regular brushing of the coat can distribute the skin’s natural oils and protect them from developing a dull, dry coat.
A Look at Nutrition and Water
To help them maintain body temperature during the colder months, pets may need more calories. However, with less activity in the daily routine pets can easily gain unwanted weight. At a routine wellness exam, we can discuss their nutrition, portion sizes for your pet’s meals, and hydration needs.
Other Tips for Winter Pet Safety
Pets seek heat from any possible source, even next to the engine block inside a parked vehicle. Be sure to knock on your car’s hood before starting it up.
- If you do create an outdoor shelter for your pet, be sure that it is waterproof and draft-free. Always have clean, fresh, unfrozen water on hand for them to enjoy.
- Also, fireplaces/pits, space heaters, and electric blankets can all pose burn or fire risks; only use when you are home to supervise.
- Be sure to check your yard, garage, and garden sheds for the proper storage or any known toxins, such as antifreeze and rat poison.
- Do not leave your pet inside your parked car when running errands. It can actually create freezing conditions for them.
Cold Weather Tactics
If you have additional questions or concerns about your pet’s health and safety during the winter months, our staff is always here to help you at Brownswitch Pet Hospital.