The cold weather is here, and that means it’s time for you to start thinking about ways to keep your pets safe. With the winter months fast approaching, there are a few important things you can do now in order to ensure that your furry friends will be happy and healthy all season long. Even if your pet stays at home all day while you’re away, they may still need some extra attention. In this post, we will discuss the 5 tips for keeping your pets safe during cold weather.
1. Stay indoors
It may seem like common sense, but you’d be surprised at how many pets are left outside during the winter months to fend for themselves. Thousands of people allow their dogs to stay outdoors in kennels during the wintertime- which can lead to serious illness or even death. Whether your pet stays inside or out.
2. Maintain your pet’s coat
Pets with thick coats who typically spend more time outdoors will need extra special attention this time of year. Frequent brushing is necessary in order to maintain a healthy coat and prevent matting, especially if your dog lives exclusively outdoors.
3. Keep food and water
The winter months can be harsh on animals’ food and water sources, which is why you need to make sure both are protected from the elements this time of year. If your pet’s food bowls sit outside in the cold, you may want to consider bringing them inside or moving them near a shelter if they cannot come indoors for warm meals.
4. Be mindful even for small breeds
Small breeds with short hair coats may not need as much attention when it comes to their fur, but that doesn’t mean they won’t have issues in the winter. Although a Chihuahua may not need a thick coat like a German Shepherd, both pets should still be protected against the cold weather.
5. Watch for signs of illness
During colder months, your pet needs extra love and care because it is more difficult for them to fend off sicknesses such as pneumonia or other respiratory illnesses involving inflammation of the lungs. If you notice coughing, panting excessively, wheezing/difficulty breathing, sneezing, or lethargy, you should take your pet to a vet.
In conclusion, please never leave your pet outside for extended periods of time- especially not overnight. The cold temperatures can be life-threatening and there are countless shelters and rescue groups out there that would be happy to adopt one (or more), furry family members, into their loving homes. Feel free to contact us for pet care services at any time.