BE PREPARED FOR COLD WEATHER

By Linda Juergens, CVA 

Much to our amazement, it’s December in Texas and some days we are still wearing

t-shirts outside! However one thing we can be sure of is that cold weather is surely on it’s way.

For the safety of our animal friends, don’t leave antifreeze, coolant or windshield wiper fluid within reach.  These products are very tasty to our pets, but most are lethal when ingested.  Also for the safety of our pets and you, keep a winter survival kit in your car. Include blankets, towels, water, bowl, first aid kit, and a sign that a dog is in the car. 

Sometimes cats and other small animals will climb into car engines or beneath cars to seek warmth.  A good idea is to knock on the hood of your car as you get in.  Hopefully, this would wake them so they would move out of the way

Our companion animals definitely enjoy a warm place to sleep, with some type of bedding, away from drafts and off the floor. Tile and uncarpeted areas can get very cold.

The dryness in our homes can make animals more susceptible to problems such as dandruff, itchy skin, hair texture changes, dry throats and more.   This may make it necessary to brush or groom them more frequently.  You can also use a humidifier and add fatty acids to their diet.  If it snows or ices, remember to clean their feet when they come in from outside as they may have salt or some other de-icing chemical that would make them sick if licked.

We all love our fireplaces, but they can be deadly hazards for animals and children. Screen fireplaces and remember to put portable heaters out of reach.  It is never a good idea to use electric blankets or heating pads around animals. They can cause burns if slept on too long or if chewed, may cause electric shock.

When temperatures fall below freezing, bring your pets inside.  If that isn’t possible, give them extra shelter and check their water supply frequently as it can freeze.