Cold Weather Tips
Here are some suggestions to keep your pet comfy, cozy and healthy when the winter winds blow:
If you own a shorthaired dog, provide him or her with a warm sweater for those cold winter walks.
Keep your older pet's bed raised slightly off the floor and away from drafts.
Your pet may look for a warm resting place, so keep a fire screen around a fireplace hearth and a wood burning stove.
Using metal water dishes outside in winter may be a risk, because your pet's tongue could stick to the frozen metal and the water can easily freeze over. Consider a self-warming dish.
Space heaters pose a triple threat - your pet may chew the cord, burn him or herself on the heater or knock it over and cause a fire.
If your dog enjoys playing in the snow, take the normal precautions against frostbite and watch for cracked pads or tiny cuts in the feet.
Don't let your dog ride in the back of a pickup truck. Along with the potential of losing your dog in an accident, winter adds the possibility of frostbite.
Road salt can burn your pet, so check the paws, mouth and belly after a walk.
Keep a towel and an old throw rug by the door. Following outdoor activity, dry your pet's chest, underbelly and feet.
The outside dog must have a well-insulated doghouse that has deep, clean bedding and is free from drafts.
Here are some suggestions to keep your pet comfy, cozy and healthy when the winter winds blow:
If you own a shorthaired dog, provide him or her with a warm sweater for those cold winter walks.
Keep your older pet's bed raised slightly off the floor and away from drafts.
Your pet may look for a warm resting place, so keep a fire screen around a fireplace hearth and a wood burning stove.
Using metal water dishes outside in winter may be a risk, because your pet's tongue could stick to the frozen metal and the water can easily freeze over. Consider a self-warming dish.
Space heaters pose a triple threat - your pet may chew the cord, burn him or herself on the heater or knock it over and cause a fire.
If your dog enjoys playing in the snow, take the normal precautions against frostbite and watch for cracked pads or tiny cuts in the feet.
Don't let your dog ride in the back of a pickup truck. Along with the potential of losing your dog in an accident, winter adds the possibility of frostbite.
Road salt can burn your pet, so check the paws, mouth and belly after a walk.
Keep a towel and an old throw rug by the door. Following outdoor activity, dry your pet's chest, underbelly and feet.
The outside dog must have a well-insulated doghouse that has deep, clean bedding and is free from drafts.
Countryside Veterinary Clinic
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Copyright 2010 Countryside Veterinary Clinic. All rights reserved.
Serving Richmond's Pet Families Since 1992
(804) 750-1694