How to keep your pets warm in winter
They may have fur, but it’s still possible for your pet to experience the chill of the winter wind. Follow these tips to help keep them safe this season.
Break out the sweaters and winter boots for your dog! Buzz60’s TC Newman has tips for taking care of pets when cold weather strikes.
You might think that just because your pet is covered in fur that they don’t get cold during the winter. While their coat does help them stay warm, it’s still possible for your pet to experience frostbite and feel the chill from the winter wind. Thus, if you are looking for ways to keep them warm in winter, check out the tips listed below.
(Photo/Ian Matyssik)
Know the Forecast
The weather in the winter can change at a moment’s notice. It may be bright and pleasant in the morning, but then by noon, it could be overcast and windy. Knowing the forecast and limiting your pet’s time outside is the best way to keep them warm.
If you leave them outside while you are at work, knowing how cold it will be throughout the day will allow you to plan. This might mean putting an extra blanket or more insulation in their shelter. You might also consider putting up a door to reduce the amount of cold air that blows into this structure.
Keep Their Paws Dry
Pets don’t have a lot of fur on their paws, and if they are exposed to snow or ice for long enough, it could lead to frostbite. Also, the cold, dry weather could dry out their paws, leaving them cracked and open to infection—which can be encouraged to grow if their paws are wet.
(Photo/Vlad CheÈ?an)
Get Them a Sweater
Should your pet happen to have short hair, getting them a sweater may be what they need to stay warm this winter. Younger and older pets might have problems regulating their body temperature, so they could also benefit from wearing a sweater. It’s possible to find sweaters and coats at a variety of retail and online stores, so you are sure to find one that will work for your furry friend.
Having a towel near the door they enter and exit is a good idea. You might also consider getting booties to wear. This will keep snow from collecting between their toes and prevent them from slipping on slick surfaces.
Keep Them Fed and Hydrated
It takes a lot of energy for your pet’s body to keep them warm, and they get this energy from the food they consume and the water they drink. To keep them warm during the winter, it’s a good idea to ensure they have regular meals and access to clean water. Should you keep your pet outside, then getting a heated bowl will ensure that their water doesn’t freeze and that they can access it when they need it.
Limit Baths
Pets get dirty and stinky. This can make them hard to live with. However, during the winter, a wet pet can get cold incredibly easily. If you find that you must bathe your pet during the winter, make sure you do it inside. You may also want to find a day that will be warmer. This can be accomplished by checking the local forecast. Once you have bathed your pet, don’t let them head outside until they have dried completely.
(Photo/Nathalie Spehner)
Create a Warm Space for Them to Lay
Creating a warm space for them to lay in your house is a great way to keep your pet warm. Place a blanket or pet bed near the window so they can warm themselves in the sun. You don’t need to add a space heater, as this could get knocked over, and getting a heated blanket could result in burns to the skin.
If you are so inclined, you might even spend some time cuddling with your pet. Combining the heat from both of your bodies is the best way to stay warm and cozy on even the coldest of winter days.
Keep an Eye on Your Pet
Even though it’s winter, you may still want to spend some quality time with your pet outside. This is fine as long as it’s not too cold. You’ll also need to keep an eye on your pet and look for signs that they are getting cold. Warning signs include whining, acting anxious, looking for a place to burrow, shivering, or they slow down or stop moving.
If your pet gets ice or snow in their fur, make sure to remove it as soon as possible. Leaving it there could lead to frostbite. Signs of frostbite include white or light-colored skin that feels cold and doesn’t get warm. If you notice any of these spots, call your vet to see how to take care of your pet.
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