Winterize your Pet

Winterizing your pet will make the season more comfortable and safe for you and your pet. For dogs make sure the little guys have a warm coat to wear in colder weather. If you live in an area where the streets are salted be sure to wash your friends feet and between the toes to remove salt and accumulated ice. Washing the feet can be easily handled using an old coffee can and warm water then dry thoroughly with a towel or wash cloth. If you must use a dog house make sure the inside has clean dry bedding and the door faces away from the prevailing winds -- also add a flap to the door. Dogs inside will often seek a radiator or heat vent to lie on or near. Periodically check the dogs hair coat and skin as the heat can cause significant drying with cracking of the skin and possible infection. If your pet scratches alot during the winter months it is probably due to drying of the skin from low humidity. If you do not use a pet food with omega-3 fatty acids (this will be stated on the ingredient panel of the food), then add 1 teaspoon of sunflower oil, for small dogs, to the food daily. Use 1 tablespoon for medium sized dogs and 2 tablespoons for larger breeds.



Keep tabs on your pets weight as an active dog will require as much as 25% more calories in very cold weather just to maintain body weight.





Don't forget your feathered friends outdoors. Keep your bird feeder filled and keep suet cakes out for them as birds need the extra energy during cold weather to maintain their high body temperature.





Clean up any car/truck antifreeze spills or leaks. Antifreeze has a sweet taste that attracts dogs and cats. What seems like a delicacy is actually a potent poison causing kidney failure. If you think your pet has consumed antifreeze get it to your veterinarian as soon as possible.





If you are not sure where your cat is, before starting your car, honk the horn. Your kitty may be sleeping under the hood.





If you have a caged bird make sure the cage is away from exterior doors as they can suffer from the cold air that comes in each time the door opens.