Pet Health Articles 
Pet Health & Behavior
Winter Safety Tips for your Pet
Here are some simple tips to “winterize” your pets:
- Even on cold winter days your dog needs regular exercise. When the temperature plummets, consider a dog sweater to keep Fido warm on winter walks. After the walk, wipe your dog’s paws to remove dirt, snow, or foreign objects. Check ears and tail for frostbite (frostbitten skin looks abnormally red or grey), which can be treated by applying warm, moist towels to the affected area until it slowly thaws. Severe cases may require vet care.
- Your dog will spend most of the day indoors, but if you put him outside provide a clean, dry shelter with an opening facing away from the wind. Check water and food bowls to make sure that they are clean and that drinking water hasn’t frozen.
- Ideally your cat will remain indoors year round, but if it does go outside, provide a warm, clean shelter for refuge from the cold. Some pet owners install a pet door that allows access to a porch or garage. Igloos and small sheds will be a welcome place for your cat to warm its paws on a winter day. Check water and food bowls regularly.
- Pets, like people, may gain weight during the winter. It’s ok to indulge your dog or cat in an occasional treat, but make sure that it is eating healthfully. Your vet can advise you about special dietary needs.
- Indoor play provides important bonding time, and will keep both you and your pet physically active. If you are regularly out of the house for long periods, consider a companion pet for your dog or cat. Pet buddies provide not only warmth and companionship, but they also groom each other and encourage physical activity.
- Check that your pets’ vaccination records are up to date. Your vet can advise you about which vaccinations are appropriate for your pet. Also, DHA offers monthly clinics that provide rabies vaccinations and microchipping services. Please see the clinic calendar in this issue for times, dates, and locations.
- Please make sure that your pet is spayed/neutered. Even during the winter months pet overpopulation is a problem, leading to thousands of unwanted, abandoned kittens and puppies in the tri-state area.
Please do your part to ensure that your pets and your neighbors’ pets have a happy, healthy winter.
