Cold Weather Tips for Your Pets
Nova Scotia has some big temperature swings during the winter that can cause your pets to have some discomfort both in the environment and in their own skin. Here are a few tips on how to help your pet live with the cold temperatures and keep them cozy all winter long.
Going from Inside to Outside
Towel dry your pet as soon as they come inside, especially their feet. Remove any and all snowballs and dry them as best you can. Moving from inside (dry heat) to outside (wet and cold) can cause itchy flakey skin so pay particular attention on the snowy days to clean them up.
Maintaining their Coat
Longer fur coats will provide your dog/cat with more warmth. If you have to shave them due to matting or skin irritation, put a coat or sweater on them. Remember to trim the hair between their toes where the snowballs form and trim any other hairs that are long enough to collect snow or salt and road chemicals that may cause skin irritation.
Irritation of Salt & Road Chemicals
If you’re walking in an area where there will be lots of salt and road chemicals, try a thin bootie to keep the irritation to a minimum.
Dangers of Antifreeze & Coolant
Antifreeze and coolant are lethal for dogs and cats. Be sure to clean up any spills and consider having these services done at a location other than your home.
A Little Extra Dinner
Feed your pet a little more during the winter, keeping warm is a good calorie burn!
If it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
Lastly, if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them. Pets can get disorientated by the cold and not thinking clearly can impact their ability to find their way home. Cats are best kept indoors during all seasons but especially winter months, and dogs should always be supervised.
