How to Keep Your Pets Warm in Cold Weather
With winter on the way, remember that cold weather can have a serious effect on pets. It’s best to place dogs and cats indoors for the majority of the season, except for necessary exercise. Before you head outside for playtime with your pet, follow these tips to keep them warm.
Provide Shelter
The best way to protect your dog or cat during the winter months is to bring them inside – period. You should never leave your pet outside for extended periods of time without supervision, especially if there’s a chance of inclement weather.
However, if your dog or cat has grown accustomed to spending much of the day outdoors, there are measures you can take to ensure he’s safe in colder weather. Shop for or build your own draft-free shelter using scrap lumber or crates from your local hardware store. Make sure the shelter is raised a few inches above the ground to prevent the floor from touching frozen terrain, and then create added warmth by lining the shelter with cedar shavings or straw for burrowing. Banish drafts, rain, and sleet by covering the entrance with waterproof plastic or burlap.
After building a waterproof shelter in your yard, consider installing a dog door or cat door in the home to give your pet freedom to enjoy dual climates. Pet doors offer your furry friend the option to head indoors when the weather becomes unbearable.
Offer Ample Food and Water
In cold weather, mammals struggle to maintain proper body temperature. Staying warm can deplete calories, so your pet will likely require extra food and water during the winter months. Check Fido’s water bowl often to ensure it’s not empty or frozen-over. Also, if he is currently using a metal water bowl, swap it for a plastic container. Not only will water freeze faster in a metal bowl, but your dog’s (or cat’s!) tongue can also get stuck to the metal during cold spells.
Be Mindful on Walks
Regular walks keep our pups happy and healthy, and shouldn’t stop just because the temperature has dropped. Simply take a few extra steps to protect your furry friend from the elements. For example, shorthaired dogs may feel warmer in a sweater or when wearing paw covers. Booties are also helpful for another of winter’s burdens: de-icing salt, which contains chemicals that can irritate pets’ paws. If your dog does not take well to booties, be diligent about wiping the pads of his feet with a damp towel after your walks together.
When winter weather is severe, a pet door will give your furry friend the ability to take shelter from the cold. Australia Pet Doors carries a variety of doors to fit any dog or cat breed. To find out which type of pet door is right for you, or to ask questions about the installation process, give us a call at 0414 922 751.
