Baby, It's Cold Outside...

Winter! It is sure not over yet, with more snow and cold winds to come. Being originally from B.C., winters typically meant for me skiing and snowshoeing and spending time on the mountainous slopes. Then in Saskatchewan, where I went to school, there were -50 degree wind chills and bundling up in snowpants just so you can walk to the mail box. Here in Ontario, winter seems to come with ice storms and winter squalls and a chilly damp cold. But regardless what you call your winter, during these frosty months, we need to think about our furry friends and things we can do to help them stay warm and safe.

Bundle Up: Just like us, some pets need their winter coats and booties on to go outside. This can be especially important for animals with short coats, younger or older pets, and those with certain disease and conditions that can affect their ability to regulate their temperature. Make sure the coat is dry (wet coats can make pets more chilled) and the boots are properly fitted (no one likes pinched toes!).

Beware of Ice: Ice can pose a problem for many reasons. An animal playing or walking on slippery ice can slip and hurt itself, or can fall through ice over deeper bodies of water. Some deicers can be toxic to pets, and salt can dry out paws. Be sure to avoid the ice best you can and wash your pet’s paws carefully after their trip outside. While you’re at it, check between the toes for annoying bundles of snow and ice that can get lodged in there!

Check the Car (inside and out): We all know that warm engines can be very inviting to our outdoor animals. However, they can also be dangerous if an animal is left snoozing there when the car is turned on. Honk the horn, tap the sides and alert an animal to your presence before starting that ignition. Be sure to also check underneath cars for anti-freeze spills. All anti-freeze, even the so-called “non-toxic” antifreeze, is toxic to pets. Also, never leave an animal inside a car after it’s been turned off, as temperatures can drop rapidly.

Provide Shelter: Don’t forget about your outdoor dogs or barn cats this winter. Make sure they have warm and cozy shelter options. Insulate the shelter with warm, dry material (straw makes a great insulator), and elevate the floor of the shelter off the ground if possible. Direct the shelter away from wind to avoid a draft. Make sure they always have access to fresh and non-frozen water.

Feed Appropriately: In the winter, a significant portion of your pet’s caloric intake can be directed towards keeping it warm. In animals spending a large amount of time outside, it may be required to increase the amount of food being fed. However, in animals spending larger amount of times inside and going on less-frequent walks, it is a good idea to watch your pet’s weight closely and consider decreasing their food intake if they are prone to gaining weight over the winter. While a lot of animals will gain weight over the winter and lose it again come spring, it is best for an animal’s overall health to maintain a steady, ideal body condition.

We hope that you and your pets enjoy the winter months ahead. However, be on the look-out for signs of frostbite or hypothermia. If you pet seems anxious or shivering, seemed depressed or quiet, or becomes unconscious, move your pet to a warm area and seek veterinary care. Remember, signs of frostbite can take days to show the full effects. 

Stay warm and stay safe!

Vanessa Tonn, DVM