Wow, did it get cold in a hurry!
Usually we don't need to start thinking about "winterizing" our canine and feline friends so quickly, but it is better to act now than pay the price later. Is the antifreeze in your garage out of reach? Are you using a paw-friendly salt for your driveway and sidewalks?
CAT SAFETY
The best thing to do to keep your cat safe during cold weather months is...keep it inside during the cold weather months! (Actually, at HAWS we feel pretty strongly that pet cats should always stay inside, no matter the season.) We hear stories often of a cat climbing in under someone's car hood to get warm, and then being injured once the car is started. Or, we've heard of a wandering kitty suffering frostbite on their sensitive toes, noses and ears. Temps can quickly turn dangerous - don't risk the safety of your favorite feline. We all know they prefer to be cuddling in a warm blanket by the fireplace, anyway...
DOG SAFETY
Some dog breeds thrive in cold weather - huskies, malamutes and other double-coated breeds were originally bred to withstand cold extremes. Other breeds may need a coat while cavorting in the colder temps. It is also a good idea to put boots or socks on your pooch while outside - to keep their paw pads from cracking from winter dryness, and to ensure road and sidewalk salt doesn't become lodged in their toes. Inspect their feet each time they come back inside, and keep some Vaseline handy to moisterize and protect those paw pads.
Pets spending a lot of time outdoors in the cold weather will need more food: keeping warm depletes energy reserves very quickly. Also, if you have a water bowl outside, make sure it doesn't freeze over! Always be alert for signs your pet isn't doing well such as shivering and lethargy.
Enjoy the changing seasons safely with your best friend!
By the way - are you starting to think about holiday gifts? Need ideas for your animal-loving family and friends and their pets? HAWS has several gift ideas, from Paver Bricks to t-shirts to toys and books. Stop in today!
