Simple tips from the humane society and Banfield Pet Hospital ensure pets stay safe and warm during the cold winter months.The first recommendation from the humane society and Banfield Pet Hospital is to keep animals inside. If you do take a short haired dog for a walk outside, consider a sweater. Remember pets are at risk for frostbite and hypothermia just like humans. Pay attention to exposed skin on a nose, ear and paw pad.Next, the Humane Society has some tips if you do keep your pet outside. Ensure there is a dry, draft-free shelter that’s large enough for the animal to sit and lay down comfortably, but it also needs to be small enough to keep in body heat. The floor needs to be raised off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw to keep out moisture. The door should be covered with heavy plastic or another waterproof material.It’s not just dogs and cats that need extra care during the winter. Banfield Pet Hospital warns to pay attention to pets inside that might be sensitive to cold-air, like reptiles and tropical fish. Make sure room temperatures stay warm so these types of animals don’t get chilled.Banfield Pet Hospital also cautions pet owners about de-icing chemicals used to melt snow and ice. These can irritate a pet’s paw pads. Make sure to wipe off your animal’s feet every time it comes inside, even if you don’t see salt on the walkway.For a full list of tips, click on the links attached to this story.
Source: Keeping your pet safe in the cold
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