The Pet Sit Blog

Combating the Cold - Part 2

January 19, 2010

Posted in: Uncategorized

Even though most parts of the country are getting a slight reprieve from the frigid temperatures, it still is cold and Old Man Winter is still unpredictable.  To make sure your pets make it though the rest of the season safely, make sure your pets are winterized:

• Watch for antifreeze leaks – they can be deadly to pets!

• Provide extra food, as some pets have increased appetites during cold-weather months.
  
• Use sweaters, raincoats, hats or paw protection such as shoes or booties.
  
• Buy heated water bowls for outdoor pets.
  
• Consider using heated beds for extreme cold weather.
  
• Keep nails trimmed regularly.  It is difficult to maintain solid footing with long nails in icy conditions.
  
• Add straw as insulation to dog houses.  For outdoor cats, provide a snug, warm bed that does not sit directly on the cold ground or concrete.
  
• For indoor animals, use protective screens around fireplaces and maintain supervision in the area.
  
• Install carbon monoxide detectors for the safety of your family and your pets.
  
• Keep the temperature level.  Animals are more sensitive to temperature change than we are.
  
• Inspect pet paws regularly to check for cracked pads, broken nails or snow and ice damage.
  
• Brush the coat regularly to distribute natural oils to the skin.

For more winter weather tips, please visit www.petsit.com.