With holiday celebrations in full swing we're facing some particularly bitter cold weather in the Capital Region, with forecasts showing temperatures plunging to frigid lows near zero and not even reaching 20 degrees at their peak.
This severe cold snap serves as a critical reminder: Even though our pets have a coat of fur they don't necessarily tolerate the cold better than humans. Like us, they are used to the warmth of indoor shelter, and extreme weather can be just as challenging for them as it is for us.
Whether you and your pet love the winter or would rather snuggle under a blanket on the couch, one thing is certain: It's a time when our pets need a little extra care. Here are some tips to ensure that your furry friends are as comfortable as possible during the cold months ahead.
Limit outdoor time: Take your dog out frequently for walks, exercise and play, but when the temperature drops don't leave them outdoors for long periods of time. Ears, paws and tails are all susceptible to frostbite. Also, be sure to keep your cats indoors in winter; in cold weather they often seek shelter and heat under the hoods of cars and can be injured or killed when the ignition is turned on.
Cozy bedding: Don't make your dog or cat sleep on a cold floor in winter. Choosing the right bedding is vital to ensure that your pet stays warm. Warm blankets can create a snug environment; raised beds can keep your dog or cat off cold tiles or floors; and heated pet beds can help keep the stiffness out of aging joints.
Protect them from heat sources: Dogs and cats will often seek heat during cold winter weather by snuggling too close to heating sources. Avoid space heaters and install baseboard radiator covers to prevent your pet from getting burned. Fireplaces also pose a major threat, so make sure you have a pet-proof system to keep your heat-seeking pal out of harm's way.
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Paw care is a must: Most ice melts on sidewalks and driveways can burn your dog's pads and can be toxic, so after walks around the neighborhood rinse or wipe your dog's paws to remove any residue. If your dog shows signs of discomfort when walking outside on frozen or salted surfaces, consider using dog booties to protect their paws.
Special care for seniors: Cold weather can aggravate existing medical conditions in dogs, particularly arthritis. It's important to maintain an exercise regimen with your arthritic dog but be mindful of slippery surfaces. If you don't already give your senior dog a joint supplement to ease the discomfort of arthritis, you might want to consider adding one in winter.
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Responsible pet guardians can avoid the wide variety of concerns harsh winter weather brings with a little preparation. Paying extra attention to your loyal friend's well-being during winter will ensure that you both enjoy the season to its fullest.
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