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WARREN'S COLD WEATHER PET ALERT
No matter where you live, colder weather brings with it some hazards you should be aware of:
It's always fun to run and play with your dog in the snow, but eating snow,
no matter how clean or pure, is not good for your dog. It causes spasms in the
gastrointestinal tract which can lead to diarrhea, stomachaches and colds.
Pets should be kept away from wood burning stoves and fireplaces. Screens or protective railings should be used to prevent accidents and injuries.
Antifreeze can be fatal if swallowed. When winterizing cars and trucks, keep antifreeze out of the reach of pets. If you spill it on the ground, be sure to clean it up properly.
Pet owners should be careful about walking pets where sidewalk de-icers or salts have been used. These substances can be irritating to the paws and can cause illness if your pet cleans his paws by licking and swallowing enough of the de-icing product.
To help prevent winter chills and illness, a pet should be dried with a towel immediately after coming in from the rain, or if the temperature drops and snow is falling, those melting snowflakes, if not properly dried, can greatly chill your pet.
Cold weather will also freeze the water in any outside water dishes. Water should either be changed frequently or a device purchased at better pet shops that keeps the water warmer than freezing temperatures.
The colder months usually bring less outdoor physical activity, and more overweight pets. Pets should be kept active to prevent weight build-up and behavioral problems linked with insufficient exercise, such as chewing and jumping.
While indoors, flaky itching skin can be a winter problem brought about by the drying effects of indoor heating. Coat conditioners that can prevent this problem are available at better pet shops.
If your pet is to be spending any time outdoors, an insulated doghouse or pet house should be provided. The door opening should be placed at one side or the other, not in the middle. Chilling winds should not blow into the center of the house. Placing the opening to the side allows for one end of the pet house to remain draft free.
Speaking of drafts, be sure bird cages are located in draft-free areas. Use a cage cover if necessary. And since our floors tend to be drafty during the winter months, why not provide a warm, comfortable bed for your cat or dog.
By following the above suggestions, you can ensure that you and your pets have a happy and healthy winter!
© Warren Eckstein
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