WITH THE COLD WEATHER IN THE PNW GETTING EVEN COLDER, it is important to make sure your pets can stay warm. Since we usually only have a couple of weeks of freezing weather each season, remember that your pets are not acclimated to those temperatures.
Here are some tips for keeping your pets warm and safe during the deep freeze.
Cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. It's a common belief that dogs and cats are more resistant than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it's untrue. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and generally should be kept inside. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods in below-freezing weather.
For outdoor pets, ensure they have shelter like a dog or cat house, shed or garage they can easily access in and out. Provide self-warming blankets, and extra food and water.
Use a dog coat for walking dogs in cold weather, especially if they do not have an undercoat of fur to keep them warm.
Wipe or wash paws and underbelly’s after walks or outdoor play to remove any snow or ice, snowmelt chemicals, or salt. Dogs will lick their feet and belly’s and ingest these toxins. Snow and ice can burn pads and unprotected skin.
Clean up any spilled antifreeze immediately to prevent your pet, and other pets and animals, from ingesting it. It has a sweet smell that animals like. Ingesting antifreeze is often deadly.
Avoid letting your pet access very cold rivers and lakes, and never let your pet walk on a frozen pond or lake.
Cold weather also brings the risks of severe winter weather, storms, and power outages. Prepare a disaster/emergency kit, and include your pet in your plans. Have enough food, water and medicine (including any prescription medications as well as heartworm and flea/tick preventives) on hand to get through at least 5 days.
Tips provided by Companion Animal Hospital, the AVMA, and the ASPCA.