Cold Weather Tips for Pets
You probably take the time to make your car or house winter-ready, but did you know that your pets need to be prepared for cold weather, too? Yes, they may be covered with fur, but most of our furry friends aren't equipped to withstand prolonged exposure to cold weather. However, our veterinarians at Clinton Hill Animal Clinic in Brooklyn, NY are here to help. There are several tips pet owners can follow to keep their pets safe during cold weather.
Keeping Your Pet Safe
Brutally cold winters are not just annoying for humans, but dangerous for pets. Freezing temperatures can have detrimental effects on your pets. Follow these tips to make sure your beloved animal is safe at all times.
Know Your Pet
Some pets are more vulnerable to cold weather than others. That said, be aware of the limits of your dog or cat. If your pet likes spending time outdoors, have it wear warm clothing to keep it warm. Hypothermia and frostbite can wreak havoc on your pets. Make it your goal to make sure your animals are warm every time they go outside.
Check Your Pet’s Paws
During walks, your pet can pick up a lot of dirt and other things on its paws, including antifreeze, salt, and deicers. Wipe off these chemicals from your pet’s paw to avoid it licking or ingesting chemicals. Also, wipe off any stuck ice between your animal's paws.
Leave Your Pet Home
Avoid outdoor activities with your pet as much as possible. Additionally, bringing your pet in the car can be dangerous during cold weather, just as it is during hot weather. If you have to drive with your pets, never leave them unattended in the car.
Clean Up Spills
Your pets might lick dangerous fluids off the ground, like antifreeze. This can pose severe health concerns if ingested. To be on the safe side, wipe accidental spills immediately, and make sure you keep bottles containing antifreeze, medicine, and other household chemicals away from your pet's reach.
Avoid Ice
When walking your pets, try to avoid icy surfaces, such as frozen ponds and lakes. Your dog or cat could seriously get injured if it breaks through the frozen surface.
Visit Our Animal hospital
If you need more information on taking care of your pets during cold weather, we can help. Contact Clinton Hill Animal Clinic in Brooklyn, NY with any questions, or to schedule an appointment. We’re not just experts on winter pet care. We take care of your animals year-round!