Cold Weather Health & Safety Tips for Your Pet
After a long summer, the temperatures are finally starting to drop and it’s time to cozy up next to the fire! The shift in seasons affects all of us differently, and pets are no different. Just like people, some pets may have certain health conditions worsen in the winter. The cold weather also brings new risk for seasonal irritants, toxins, and physical hazards to potentially cause harm.
Talk Points:
- Take precautions if your pet has certain health conditions that get worse in cold weather (like arthritis or asthma)
- Watch for health issues that increase during the winter months: For example, ear infections, kennel cough, and dog flu (which has been especially bad in 2021!)
- Antifreeze is deadly for pets.Clean up spills/leaks immediately and make sure that it is stored in a sealed container locked in a secured cabinet. If you think your pet has consumed anti-freeze, this is a true life or death emergency! Go to your vet ASAP and call ahead while you are on your way!
- Road salt is irritating to skin and poisonous if eaten- rinse off immediately if they walk through it.
- Before you drive off, check your car for cats looking for a warm place to nap— Cats may find a cozy spot in wheel wells or in the hood of a car to sleep by the engine (also watch for strays!)
- Fire hazards:
- Be mindful of where you place real candles, especially if you have a nimble feline. Electric candles are a much safer option and look great.
- Space heaters can start a fire if they fall over or get bumped into a flammable object. Look for one with an automatic shut off and keep away from anything flammable.
- Always watch for thin ice if you live near water!
- Protect your pet’s paws from frostbite with booties. (To Treat Frostbite:Give your pet a warm bath and wrap them in warm towels. Do not rub frostbite!)