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With cold weather in the air, it is important not to forget that pets need special attention to protect them from the harsh winter weather conditions. Abiding by the following guidelines will help keep your pet safe in cold temperatures, snow, sleet or other winter weather conditions.
First, pets do not like to be outside in the cold weather any more than people do. Therefore, keep your pets indoors as much as possible when the temperature is below freezing. Remember to consider the wind chill factor when deciding whether or not to let your pets outdoors for extended periods of time. In addition, never leave them outdoors unsupervised during snowstorms or extremely cold weather. Pets can get disoriented and can lose their scent, causing them to get lost.
Be sure to clean off your pet’s paws after they spend time outdoors. The salt that is used to prevent ice from sticking to roads and sidewalks contain dangerous chemicals. These chemicals can irritate your pet’s paws and even cause dangerous health conditions if ingested. Antifreeze is another common winter chemical that can be dangerous to your pet. It also has a sweet taste, which makes it likely for your pet to try and drink it. Therefore, make sure you keep all containers tightly closed and out of reach. Be sure to clean up any spills immediately.
You may also want to consider getting your pet a coat or sweater if they will be spending time outdoors. This will help provide protection against freezing temperatures and provide warmth. In addition, make sure to check your pet’s water dish regularly. Cold temperatures can cause water to freeze and make it difficult for your pet to get the nourishment they need.
Finally, some pets will be sensitive to the cold temperatures and may develop conditions such as arthritis. If your pet seems uncomfortable during winter, you may need to see your veterinarian for treatment.
