Autumn certainly disappeared in a hurry! We no sooner finished raking leaves and the cold weather was here. Winter can be a beautiful time of year, with fresh snowfalls, outdoor activities with our families and our pets.
We have a few recommendations for you to help keep your pets safe during this season:
1. Salt: Coarse salt is usually used for de-icing sidewalks and streets and can be dangerous for your dogs feet. Walking through it should be avoided. Prolonged contact can cause burns, and your dog can ingest it by licking his paws. If your dog will tolerate wearing boots that would be the safest way to keep his feet clean and dry. If not be sure to wipe the paws as soon as you come indoors. This will also give you an opportunity to check for cuts and scrapes from ice. Pet friendly de-icing products can be purchased for use instead of regular salt.
2. Extreme cold: If it’s too cold for you to stay outside, it’s too cold for your pet. Some breeds of dogs have been adapted to live in cold climates so some exceptions can be made. For dogs that do live outdoors proper housing is extremely important. Usually it’s best for dogs to stay inside and go outside for short periods of time to relieve themselves. Coats and boots help them to cope with the low temperatures. Cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite so it’s best to keep them indoors when it’s very cold out.
5/ Snowstorms: Did you know a dog can lose his scent trail and sense of direction in a snowstorm? This is a good reason to keep them on a leash if you are walking in a blizzard.
6/ Antifreeze: Antifreeze is one of the most dangerous hazards that face animals in the winter. It is extremely toxic and has a sweet taste so they are attracted to drinking it. It takes approximately 3 ounces of ethylene glycol (the active ingredient in antifreeze) to be lethal to a large dog. Please be cautious with its use and never let pets drink from puddles, they may contain antifreeze.
