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
