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Protect Pets From Winter's Woes
Like you, dogs and cats cannot withstand winter's bitter cold and numbing wetness. Help pets remain happy and healthy during winter:
 | Do not leave dogs or cats outdoors when the temperature sharply drops. |
| Short-haired, very young, or old dogs and cats should never be left outdoors. |
| Most dogs and cats are safer indoors, except when taken out for exercise. |
| Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks. |
| No matter what the temperature, wind chill can threaten a pet's life. An outdoor dog must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the animal to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in its body heat, with a floor raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings. The house also should face away from the wind and have a doorway covered with burlap or a rug. |
| Outdoor dogs need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check water dishes to make certain water is fresh and unfrozen. |
| Warm engines in parked cars attract cats. To avoid their injury, bang on car hoods to scare them away before starting engines. |
| Salt and chemicals used to melt snow and ice can burn the pads of pets' feet. Wipe them with a damp towel before animals lick them and burn their mouths. |
| Antifreeze tastes sweet, but is deadly poison to pets (and children)! Wipe up spills, and store all household chemicals out of reach. |
| Dry heat can dry out a cat or dog’s coat and skin. A small amount of vegetable oil in their food will help keep them soft. |
