2010 Media Releases

Date:

January 6, 2010

For More Information Contact:

Animal Control - 441-7900

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Cold Weather Pet Tips

Cold weather can be just as hard for pets. Sometimes owners forget that their pets are just as accustomed to the warm shelter of the indoors as they are and the extreme cold can pose similar health risks. Some owners will leave their animals outside for extended periods of time. thinking that all animals are adapted to live outdoors. The following guidelines will help you protect your companion animals when the mercury drops:

• Outside dogs must have well-insulated dog houses that have deep. clean bedding and are free from drafts. Animal Control requires outdoor shelters to include four walls. a roof, and a floor. Straw is recommended for bedding material in the dog house.
• If you suspect your pet has frostbite. contact your veterinarian immediately. Staying warm requires extra calories. Pets may need more food if kept outdoors for the winter. or less food if brought inside for the winter. Talk to your veterinarian about your pets nutrition needs.
• Always provide fresh. clean water for your pet. If the weather is cold. it's essential to keep their water clear of ice. Animal Control recommends using healed water bowls.
• In their search to keep warm outdoors. cats often take refuge next to a warm car engine or tire. To alert an animal that may be in your vehicle. slap the hood before starting your car.
• Never let your dog ofT the leash on snow or ice. especially during a snowstorm-dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season. so make sure yours always wears 10 tags. especially its license tag.
• Antifreeze tastes sweet to pets and is poisonous if consumed. Should a pet ingest any amount of it. contact your veterinarian immediately. Antifreeze and coolants that are essentially nontoxic are available at many auto supply stores.
• Keep your pets coat well groomed during the winter. Fur that is matted will not properly protect your pet from the cold.
• Ice-melting chemicals can irritate and bum the pads of your pets feet. Don' t allow your pet to lick its feet after it has walked outdoors. Use a damp towel to wipe off its feet and underside.
• Remove snow that is piled high next to your fence. It can provide a boost for your dog to jump over and become lost.
• Your pet may look for a warm rest ing place so keep a fire screen around a firep lace hearth and a wood burning stove. Space heaters pose a triple threat. Your pet may chew the cord. burn itself on the heater. or knock it over and cause a fire .
• Don't let your dog ride in the back of a pickup truck and never leave your pet in a car during cold weather.