| It's winter in parts of the world and Mother Nature | | | | time spent outdoors. |
| has made this winter one of the worst. | | | | There is clothing available for pets to protect them |
| While some dogs and even some cats have heavy, | | | | from cold and wet. Wool sweaters and jackets can |
| thick coats, most do not have sufficient protection | | | | provide some protection from the cold. Waterproof |
| from harsh winds, below freezing temperatures, ice | | | | raincoats, some lined for warmth, can help keep your |
| and snow. Older pets and puppies and kittens may | | | | dog relatively dry while outdoors. Since dog's |
| not be able to withstand the cold. | | | | temperatures are regulated through the soles of their |
| There are dogs that are equipped to withstand icy | | | | paws (and tongues), booties made especially for |
| winters and even prefer to be outdoors. But even | | | | them will help against the cold and also protect their |
| these dogs need some protection. Keep in mind that | | | | paws from ice and products like salt used to melt ice. |
| wet fur loses its ability to insulate. Dogs that prefer | | | | When walking your dog on dark days, you should |
| to be outside should have a dog house for | | | | both wear reflective clothing to keep safe. |
| protection. Place the house where it will be protected | | | | There are things you can do indoors to make your |
| from the wind. It should be waterproof, have a | | | | pet more comfortable. A pet pillow or a pet bed |
| sloping roof and should not sit directly on the ground. | | | | provides protection from the cold floor. Likewise |
| There are even doghouses that provide heating. Any | | | | mats and/or rugs and carpeting. My dogs prefer |
| heating source should be made specifically for animals | | | | sleeping on the couches even though they have |
| to avoid accidents. You can also provide a place in | | | | beds. I'm a softy and I allow it. |
| your garage (make sure there's no anti-freeze | | | | Check with your vet about increasing your pet's food |
| around) or a shed to shelter your pet. Make sure | | | | during the winter months. The extra calories will help |
| your dog has fresh water available and check to be | | | | keep your pet warm. Just don't let your pet get too |
| sure it isn't frozen. | | | | pudgy. |
| You can provide a litter box for your cat and keep it | | | | If you suspect your dog or cat is suffering from the |
| indoors. Cats are safer inside in all circumstances. You | | | | cold (frostbite, hypothermia) contact your vet |
| can offer feral cats some type of shelter, a dog | | | | immediately. |
| house, your garage, a shed or even a cardboard box | | | | And a cuddle with your pet will keep you both warm. |
| placed in spot away from wind. Cats seek warmth in | | | | Note: If you keep other pets in outdoor cages, like |
| the engine of a car, so bang on the hood of your car | | | | rabbits, ferrets, etc., make sure they are protected |
| before starting it. | | | | from the elements. Consider bringing them indoors |
| Dogs need to go outside to potty. Try to keep | | | | during the coldest time of winter. |
| these outdoor trips to a minimum and shorten the | | | | |