Keep pets safe in freezing weather

From Seattle Humane Society

With snow and freezing temperatures upon us, it’s time to prepare pets for the winter weather. Seattle Humane offers these tips to keep pets safe when the temperature dips.

Keep Pets Indoors

Kitty paws can get frostbitten in freezing temps
Photo courtesy Seattle Humane Society

Pets can get frostbite, too! Never leave your pet outside in freezing temperatures for an extended period of time. On freezing cold days, keep your walks and snow-romps short. Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice. Dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. Research shows that more dogs are lost during winter than any other season. Always make sure your pet is microchipped and wears ID tags.

Dress Appropriately

A dog’s coat provides some insulation against the cold, but short-haired dogs need a coat or sweater for additional warmth while outside.

Increase Food Supply

Dogs have to work harder to stay warm when exercising outside. Increasing their food supply, particularly protein, will keep them in tip-top shape.

Beware of Seasonal Poisons

Coolant and antifreeze can spill in the garage or on the street and are lethal to dogs and cats. A dog’s paws, legs and stomach should be wiped off when coming in out of the rain, sleet, snow or ice. Make sure to use dog booties to prevent your pet from getting chemicals and street salt on the pads of their feet, which can lead to burns and poisoning if they lick their feet.

Offer Warm Sleeping Spots

Pets belong inside with the rest of the family. Providing a warm place to sleep, off of the floor and away from drafts, will keep dogs and cats feeling comfortable during the cold months. 

Save a Life by Tapping on Your Hood

Outdoor cats will climb under the hoods of cars for warmth, so be safe and bang loudly on the car’s hood before starting the engine to give any sleeping cats a chance to vacate.