Keep Pets Safe in Sub-Zero Cold

Dogs and cats are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia despite their furry coats, the American Veterinary Medical Association warns.

With winter weather upon much of the country’s pets these days, the AVMA has prepared tips for keeping pets warm and safe throughout the winter.

The group warns that, while long-haired and thick-coated dogs tend to be more cold-tolerant, they still at risk in cold weather.

Short-haired pets feel the cold faster, and short-legged pets may become cold faster because their bellies are more likely to come into contact with snow-covered ground.

Pets with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease or hormonal imbalances (such as Cushing’s disease) may have a harder time regulating their body temperature, and may be more susceptible to problems from extreme ranges of temperature. The same goes for very young and very old pets.

Follow these tips from the AVMA:

“Adjust your dog’s walks. In very cold weather you may need to adjust the route and duration of your walks to protect you and your dogs from weather-associated health risks. Arthritic and elderly pets in particular may have more difficulty walking on snow and ice and may be more prone to slipping and falling.

Be prepared for emergencies. Cold weather also brings the risks of blizzards and power outages. Have enough pet food, water and medicine (including any prescription medications as well as heartworm and flea/tick preventives) on hand to get through at least five days.

Prepare a safe indoor environment. Pet-proof your home and make sure pets cannot knock over space heaters. Provide a choice of comfortable sleeping places that will allow your pet to vary its location based on its need for more or less warmth. If you have birds, make sure their cages are away from drafts.

Make some noise. A warm vehicle engine can be an appealing heat source for outdoor and feral cats, but the consequences of hibernating there can be deadly. Check underneath your car, bang on the hood and honk the horn before starting the engine to encourage feline hitchhikers to abandon their roost.

Check the paws. Check your dog’s paws frequently for signs of cold weather injury or damage, such as cracked paw pads or bleeding. A sudden lameness during a walk may be due to an injury or ice accumulation between the toes. You may be able to reduce the chance of ice accumulation by clipping the hair between your dog’s toes.

Wipe down. When you get inside, wipe down (or wash) your pet’s feet, legs and belly to remove any chemicals or salt and reduce the risk that it will be poisoned after it licks them off of its feet or fur. Consider using pet-safe deicers on your property to protect your pets and the others in your neighborhood.”

You can find out more by visiting AVMA.