WISCONSIN — As temperatures continue to plummet, it’s important to keep your pets warm, dry and safe.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) released these safety tips on its website:
If you’re too cold, so is your pet
Pets who are left outside when it's cold can freeze, become disoriented, get lost, get hurt or even killed. Pets should be kept inside, where it’s warm and safe.
ASPCA also said pets should not be left in the car alone. In cold weather, cars can act like refrigerator, keeping cold air inside. This could freeze your pet, lead to health problems or kill them.
Be cognizant of paws
Make sure to wash and dry your pet's feet and tummy after they go on a walk or spend time outside.
On walks, pets can step in ice, salt or other chemicals that could hurt their feet and paw pads. ASPCA recommended bringing a dry, clean towel on long walks if you need to clean off irritated paws.
Check for any cracks in paw pads or redness between toes, too.
You can also rub petroleum jelly into your pet's paw pads before they go outside. This helps protect them from salt and chemicals. Booties are another great option to protect paws outside.
Keep your home humidified and your pet dry
Towel drying your pet as soon as they head inside will help keep their skin healthy, avoiding flakes or itchiness.
”Repeatedly going into the cold and then coming back to a warm home can cause this skin reaction in pets,” ASPCA said. “Again, paying close attention to their feet and in-between their toes will help prevent and treat skin irritation in the winter.”
Do not shave your pets down in the winter
A dog’s coat is like, well, a coat. The longer it is, the more warmth they’ll have.
If you have a long-haired dog, feel free to trim them down to avoid things getting caught in their fur or hair, such as ice balls, salt crystals or de-icing chemicals. Those can all dry out their skin.
If you have a short-haired pet, bundle them up in a coat, sweater or turtleneck.
Skip baths if possible during cold spells
Too many baths could get rid of oils in your pet’s skin, increasing the odds of their skin getting dry or flaky. During the winter, opt for moisturizing shampoo. Ask your vet if they have any recommendations.
Clean antifreeze spills
Antifreeze can kill your pet. Other chemicals commonly used in cold weather, such as ice melts, can be poisonous when ingested. Ensure chemicals are out of paws’ reach.
Take the time to clean up any spills from your car. ASPCA also suggested “using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.”
Feed your pets more
ASPCA said pets burn extra energy throughout the winter in order to stay warm. The extra calories and plenty of water are needed when it’s chilly.
Make sure they’re cozy at night
Your pet should be sleeping off the floor and away from any drafts. Consider adding a blanket to their bed to keep them extra toasty.
Stay together, and on a leash, when you’re outside
Don’t let your dog off leash during a snowstorm, onto snow or on ice.
”Dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure your dog always wears an ID tag,” ASPCA said.
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