As the cold weather is approaching us and the snow is beginning to fall, there are many different hazards to keep an eye out for. Hopefully, with these six helpful tips, our pets can have a happy and healthy holiday season!
1. Cat Safety
During the cold weather seasons always make sure to tap the hood of your car or honk your horn before starting it. Cats tend to curl up in the of cars engine in hopes of seeking warmth. Always try to keep an eye out.
2. Dressing for the Weather
If it’s too cold for you out there, then it’s probably too cold for your pet as well. Sweaters/coats are always a good idea throughout the winter to ensure your pet is always staying warm. Booties are also highly recommended during this time as dogs can get ice and salt chunks stuck in their paws and when it starts to melt it can irritate or even burn them.
3. Hypothermia
We always hear about the dangers of leaving your pet in the car on a hot summer day and the consequences that come with it, but we rarely hear of anyone talking about leaving an animal in the car on a cold winter day. Both are equally as dangerous, and it can even cause your pet to freeze to death given certain circumstances.
4. Christmas Hazards
Many different objects and foods come out more often during the winter season that have the potential to harm your pets, such as – ornaments, poinsettias, tinsel, chocolate and Christmas lights.
5. Increased Hunger
Dogs tend to eat more during the colder weather, but the weather may prevent them from getting enough exercise to burn off the extra calories. Be careful of how much you are feeding your dog at this time as they may need to start an exercise plan once spring rolls around.
6. Helping the Strays
This time of the year there is multiple animals without homes that are trying to keep themselves warm. If you’re willing to lend a helping hand this holiday and get in the spirit of giving, the best way to help strays are to get a bin with a lid and carve a hole on the side of the tray for entry. For the insides it is strongly recommended that you use some sort of straw or hay to keep them warm, blankets tend to trap moisture that can make the animals damp, chilly and uncomfortable.
Written by Alyssa Fuoco
