How To Keep Your Pet Safe This Winter
The winter can bring with it severe weather, including freezing temperatures, ice, and snow. With this in mind, it’s important to think about how to keep your pet safe at this time of year. The colder weather can cause major problems for dogs and cats, ranging from skin irritation to hypothermia and frostbite. They need extra care to ensure they remain healthy and happy throughout the season. Read on to find out how to keep your pet safe this winter.
Create A Cosy And Warm Space Indoors
Plummeting temperatures can impact both the comfort and health of your pet, leaving them shivering and vulnerable to various cold-related health issues. As a result, it’s important to create a warm and cosy space in your home that they can retreat to. They should have a comfy bed in an area that is free from draughts.
Additionally, if the floors are cold in the spot where your pet sleeps, use extra padding. You could also lay down rugs to provide insulation. An elevated bed can also be a good option for the winter months as it helps to keep your pet away from the chilly floor, maintaining their body heat more effectively. Creating a snug and comfortable space for your pet can help them to feel happier and more secure in winter.
Limit Time Outdoors
Even if your pet enjoys frolicking in the snow, it’s important to limit their time outdoors during the winter months. Spending too long in cold temperatures can cause your pet to become ill, with frostbite and hypothermia real risks. Keep a close eye on how much time your pet is spending outdoors and bring them inside if the weather becomes too extreme or if you notice signs of discomfort, such as shivering, seeking warmth, or lifting their paws excessively.
Protect Their Paws
Snow, ice, salt and chemicals can take a toll on your pet’s paws, causing irritation, dryness, and even burns. This means it’s essential to take steps to protect them during the winter months. As well as wiping their paws after playing or walking outside, you might also want to consider booties to give their paws extra protection. Booties serve as a barrier between their delicate paws and the cold ground, protecting them from cold temperatures and stopping ice, salt and chemicals from making direct contact.
Consider Pet-friendly Garments
More and more pet owners are opting to dress their beloved animals in specialised clothing designed for comfort and protection from the elements. This has led to an abundance of pet-friendly garments making their way onto the market in recent years. We’ve already talked about booties, which do a great job of protecting dogs’ feet during the winter months. Sweaters and jackets can be helpful during cold spells too, providing dogs with an extra layer of insulation and keeping them dry on walks. Make sure you take accurate measurements of your dog before choosing clothing for them. This will help to ensure that the garments fit properly and don’t cause any discomfort.
Make Dietary Adjustments
Animals use more energy during the winter months in order to stay warm when the weather is at its coldest. As a result, feeding your pet a balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats and essential nutrients is more important than ever. If you’re not sure what to feed your pet to support their health and well-being, consult with your vet. They can provide you with tailored advice on catering to your pet’s dietary requirements based on their age, breed, health and activity levels.
Keep Your Pet Hydrated
Don’t forget to keep your pet hydrated throughout the winter months. During the colder weather, they may be less willing to drink water as they feel less thirsty. However, it’s just as important as at any other time of the year that they drink adequate water throughout the day. With this in mind, make sure you keep your pet’s bowl topped up with fresh water, keeping it in an accessible place within your home. Be aware that the water inside their bowl can freeze in very low temperatures. As a result, you might want to think about using heated bowls in winter.
Get Your Pet Checked By A Vet
Since the winter weather can take such a toll on your pet’s health, it’s crucial to get them checked by a vet before the winter sets in. The colder weather can worsen certain health conditions or weaken their immune systems, making them more vulnerable to cold-related illnesses. A vet check-up provides a thorough assessment of your pet’s health, ensuring they are in optimal condition to withstand the colder temperatures. Your vet can also provide expert advice on nutrition, exercise, and any necessary preventive measures tailored to your pet’s specific needs.
Make Dog Grooming A Priority
Winter weather can impact your dog’s coat and skin, with dryness, matting and increased risk of skin issues being common concerns. This makes professional grooming highly advisable, even if your dog has a shorter coat or normally requires less grooming. A visit to a professional dog grooming salon during winter can ensure that your pet’s coat is properly maintained, preventing all manner of issues. Groomers have the necessary expertise and specialised products to address specific winter-related issues, such as dry skin or tangled fur. They can ensure your dog remains comfortable and healthy throughout the colder months.
Now you know how to keep your pet safe this winter, you may be keen to find local dog groomers. For dog grooming in Sheffield, look no further than Jaycliffe Pets.
