Keep your Pet out of the COLD!

Keep your pet out of the cold
With frigid temperatures during the winter, it is
important to remember to keep your pets indoors.
This applies to both dogs and cats. Granted, some
of the thicker longer-coated breeds thrive in colder
temperatures and love to stay outside in the snow, but
they should always be given the option to come inside.
According to city ordinance, all pets must have adequate
protection from the weather and have access to food and
water. A metal water dish in cold weather should never be
used, as a dog’s tongue can get stuck to it. Water should
be checked frequently to ensure that it is not frozen.
When the weather drops below freezing, a poorly
insulated shelter may not provide the warmth needed
to keep a pet safe. Being exposed to harsh weather
conditions for an extended period of time can cause
hypothermia, frostbite or even death. 

Keeping your dog comfortable and warm while out on
a walk can be challenging for some dog owners. Dogs
with shorter fur coats, smaller dogs and senior pets can
easily feel the effects of the cold. Providing your dog
with a coat, sweater or booties can be hugely beneficial
in keeping them warm. Booties can also protect their
paws from harsh chemicals used for deicing.
If possible, dogs should be walked midday when it is
typically the warmest hours of the day. Walks should be
frequent but shorter to limit their exposure to the cold.
It is also important to keep your dog leashed while on
a walk. Not only is it a city ordinance, but keeping your
dog leashed can keep them from getting lost during a
winter snowstorm. Dogs rely on their sense of smell to
guide them home, and this can be a difficult task if snow
is covering their surroundings.
It’s also good practice to always give a little pound on
the hood of your vehicle before starting it in case a
cat has climbed under the hood to seek warmth and
shelter. This can be extremely dangerous for the cats,
causing injury or death when the car is started