Snow day snacks? Check. Extra de-icer? Check. Winter adventure plans? Check.
Now all that’s left is making sure your four-legged friends are safe and warm. Follow these tips from the Best Friends Animal Society to keep them comfortable on even the most frigid days.
Credit: Best Friends Animal Society
1. When the temperature drops, danger rises. When the temperature drops below 20°F, pets can quickly develop hypothermia or frostbite. Keep them indoors as much as possible and limit outdoor time to quick walks and bathroom breaks.
2. It’s sweater weather. Ears, paws and tails are most at risk in the cold. Small, short-haired or senior dogs may need a sweater or coat to help them stay warm. If your dog starts whining, lifting their paws or slowing down on walks, that’s your cue to head indoors.
3. Protect those paws. Salt and ice-melt chemicals can irritate paw pads, and antifreeze is extremely toxic to pets. Always use pet-safe ice melt, wipe paws with a damp towel after walks, and consider booties for added protection.
Credit: Best Friends Animal Society
4. Leash up in the snow. Snow and ice can make familiar routes unrecognizable, and pets can easily lose their scent and become disoriented. Keep dogs leashed and double check that their microchip and ID tags are current, just in case.
5. Check your engine. Community cats often seek warmth by curling up under car hoods or near engines. Tap the hood, look underneath or give a honk before starting your car to make sure no cats are hiding.
Find more pet care resources, including how to know how cold is too cold for Fido, visit the Best Friends Animal Society website.
Credit: Best Friends Animal Society