During the winter, here are some tips to keep your pets warm and safe.
WIshTV
Although some pets are used to being outside in the cold, veterinary professionals agree that if the temperature dips below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, you should bring your outdoor pets inside.
Today, Tom Dock of Noah's Animal Hospital visited us to talk about how important it is to keep your dogs warm and safe over the winter
When the weather drops below 20 degrees or there is a wind chill warning in Marion County, pet owners are obliged by law to bring their dogs indoors. When the temperature drops below 40 degrees, puppies, kittens, and short-haired pets should be brought inside.
Proper grooming is necessary for pets with long hair to retain a layer of warm air within their coat. Heavily matted pets are unable to keep themselves warm.
If your pet has to be outside, make sure he or she has a safe place to remain. A suitable "home" will have three enclosed sides, be high off the ground, and have enough bedding, such as straw or hay. When it comes to the cold, larger isn't necessarily better. A home that is just big enough for your pet will warm up and keep heat more efficiently than one that is too huge.
Your pet will require access to fresh, non-frozen water. Use warm water basins that are regularly replenished.
During the winter months, antifreeze is a frequent and lethal pet toxin. You must call your veterinarian right away if you believe your pet has ingested any antifreeze! Antifreeze has a delicious flavor for pets, thus any spilled substance will be quickly consumed. If antifreeze is spilled, thoroughly wet the surface and brush the excess water into a rocky or sandy location. To deter dogs from licking the rocks, cover the area with dirt.
The melting of ice is also an issue. Most of the time, merely brushing the salt off your pet's feet will enough, but in rare situations, dogs may consume enough of the substance to induce salt poisoning.
Although pet-safe products are available, they still pose a risk.
Cats enjoy getting warm beneath automobile hoods. If you park your car outside or if cats get access to your garage, make sure you pound on the hood before starting it. Fan belts and moving engine parts kill or seriously hurt many cats.
Because of the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or hypothermia, pets should never be left alone in automobiles.
Our dogs, like humans, are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. When taking your dog outside, consider using a leash. Many off-leash dogs may investigate "frozen" retention ponds, lakes, or streams, falling through the ice into the freezing water.
Actually, being outside and walking your dog can help you keep your New Year's pledge to get in better shape or lose weight by keeping your pet safe. Our canines may be excellent motivators! Their enthusiasm for being outside and walking is palpable!
To avoid any potential damage to your cherished friend, consult your veterinarian about safe techniques to get your pet walking. During these months, older dogs may be more prone to arthritis. Inquire with your veterinarian about strategies to keep your older pet warm and comfortable during winter.
All pets should be kept away from wood-burning stoves, fireplaces, and space heaters. These can result in serious burns!
This is an excellent time of year to schedule your pet's "winter check-up" with your veterinarian. Their knowledge and experience can assist you in keeping your pet safe and warm.
Details: https://www.wishtv.com/lifestylelive/tips-to-keep-your-pets-warm-safe-during-winter/
