6 tips for keeping your pet warm this winter

A new year has dawned with blasts of arctic air ushering in 2018 in the United States. From coast to coast, sub-zero temperatures and wind chills have taken their icy grip. These freezing temperatures not only affect people, but they also impact animals, including our pets. As caregivers to our furry family members, we need to insure our beloved companions are safe, warm, and healthy during this cold season. Although they have fur, and some breeds have extra-thick coats, the bitter temperatures do impact pets. Preventing frostbite and hypothermia saves our animals from injury, even death.
 
Here are six tips for keeping your pet warm during these frosty months:

1. If you walk or play with your dog outdoors on a frigid day, do so when the sun the shining and the temperature is warmest, generally mid-morning to mid-afternoon.  The sun provides vitamin D, which is good for both people and pets.
2. Be especially attentive to the pads of paws.  Feet, ears, and tails are most susceptible to frostbite, and paws can pick up debris and ice melt – therefore, clean your pet’s pads when returning indoors. Also, you may want to invest in booties to help protect your furry friend’s feet.
3. Cold as well as dry weather can affect your pet’s skin just as it can your own. Add a skin/coat supplement to your animal’s diet to help prevent dry, flakey skin. You might also try coconut oil as a moisturizer, applied directly onto the skin or coat.
4. Keep your animal hydrated. Animals need water as much in winter as they do in summer. Therefore, insure your pet has plenty of fresh drinking water every day.
5. Help your pet deal with the pain of arthritis. Cold weather makes arthritis even more uncomfortable. Therefore, if you have a senior animal, or one that experiences arthritis, provide a supplement for joint care and ensure your pet gets the exercise it needs to lubricate those achy areas.
6. Provide warm bedding for your beloved pet. Blankets, dog/cat beds, and other cozy comforts will keep your animal warm during the harsh winter season. Just as we often use quilts, afghans, and other toasty materials to keep us warm, our pets also need more than a cold floor on which to lie. And, please don’t leave your dog chained up or kenneled outside during these freezing temperatures – short-haired dogs in particular can (and do) freeze and die when left outdoors.

 
As we dive into this winter season, following these guidelines can keep your pet safe and healthy during the brutal battle of arctic air we’re experiencing. For more thoughts on winter safety for your pet, visit these websites:
https://pets.webmd.com/dogs/features/dog-cold-weather-tips#1
and
http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/15-winter-care-tips-for-your-dog/

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