Protect your animal during the winter months with these tips and by seeing you local veterinarian.
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Cold Concerns: Hypothermia
When an animal's body temperature falls below normal, they will shiver and begin to show signs of lethargy. You must treat immediately to avoid coma, heart and kidney problems.
Dogs with heavy fur can handle almost any kind of weather. Short-haired pets, elderly or extremely young should wear a coat when it is below freezing. The amount of time your pet can spend in cold weather depends on several factors, so ask your vet for specifics. If your pet is shivering, take him inside and wrap him in a blanket. Call your veterinarian if it does not subside after 30 minutes.
Cold Concerns: Antifreeze
Animals like the sweet taste of antifreeze. Drinking even a small amount can cause fatal kidney damage. Vomiting, lack of coordination, seizures and thirst are signs of exposure.
Stow containers on a high shelf out of your pet's reach. Discard bottles that are cracked or leaking. Clean spills thoroughly with soap and water. If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze, take him to the vet immediately. |
Cold Concerns: Shelter
While some breeds, like St. Bernards, can handle being outside during cold weather, most pets (dogs or cats) should spend only a limited time outside during the winter. The cold can take a toll if animals do not have a warm place to escape to.
Insulate your pup's house with padding or straw, and cover the doorway with a weatherproof flap. The shelter should be small. It should be just big enough for him to stand, lie down and turn around, so it holds his body heat. Raise the doghouse a few inches off the ground to prevent moisture caused by rain and snow from seeping inside. When it is freezing, bring him into your home. If your pet stays indoors, make sure he sleeps in a warm, draft-free area. |
Cold Concerns: Frostbite
When you pet is exposed to frigid teperatures, blood flows to her center to keep her warm. This can result in tissue damage to the extremeties- ears, footpads, the tip of the tail. The skin becomes white, cool to the touch and soft or rubbery, then turns black.
To protect your pet, do not let her out in the cold longer than you would stay out. If you suspect frostbite, press a tepid- not hot- towel on the affected area for at least 20 minutes or until thawed. Blisters and blackened skin are signs that you should visit your veterinarian, so always check you pet if she has been outside for a few hours.
Cold Concerns: Thermal Insulation
Pets need extra calories during the winter months to stay warm, especially if they spend time running around outside. When animals don't eat enough, they move slowly, tire quickly and drop weight, which can lead to aweakened immune system and illness. Talk to your veterinarian to make sure your pet is getting enough exercise and eating the correct amount of food for his or her age, weight, and activity level. |