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The winter’s chilled air, cloudy skies, and inevitable snow and ice, means that it’s time to prepare our dogs and cats for cold weather comfort, health, and safety.
When the temperatures drop, our activity levels drop as well. And subsequently, our pets are outside less, getting less exercise, and slowly packing on the pounds. These pounds will insidiously increase throughout the winter, and then when you see your veterinarian in the spring, and they might give you the ol’ raised eyebrow about your pet’s new and increased weight.
Taper your pet’s ration. Remember, that metabolism will vary as much between dogs and cats and it does between humans… in other words, make your choices based on what you observe; there are no fast hard rules to follow, just be aware. You can weigh your pet at your veterinarian’s office, or at the local pet supply store. Using the same scale for repeated weighings will help.
Another problem that may continue to haunt you in the cooler months is fleas. Adult fleas thrive in an ambient temperature of 66 – 84 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature outside is less that 40 degrees Fahrenheit, the flea eggs outside won’t hatch. If the temperature is below 46 degrees for 10 days, or below 37 degrees for 5 days, it will kill the flea eggs outside. But if you have fleas in your house, or the temperature outside rises, fleas again hop onto your pet. There are numerous safe and effective flea preventatives available from your veterinarian. It’s important to remember that although the “online” pharmacies claim to be less expensive, they will not guarantee flea prevention, nor will they reimburse you, should your pet suffer from fleas. And usually, the cost of the flea preventative is comparable.
Another thing to think about in the winter: the salt used to melt ice. This can be an aggravating irritant to dog and cat’s paws should they walk on it. They may limp, they may stop walking altogether, and look to you for help. The salt to melt ice is very irritating to the sensitive skin tissue of their paws. If it cannot be avoided, rinse the pet’s paws copiously in a tepid water bath. There are many pet safe products on the market that you can use on your own walkways, steps, etc. You can find them at your local pet store.
Please be aware that this is the time of year that people add or change the antifreeze in their vehicles. Antifreeze is extremely toxic to our pets. It’s sweet tasting and tempting for them lap up. The sweet taste is deceiving because it will destroy their kidneys in a matter of hours to days, depending on the size of your pet and the amount consumed. Watch your pets closely outside! Make sure their immunizations are current, and if you intend to board your pet, make sure they have the kennel cough vaccine, it’s been a nasty bug lately.
Happy tails!
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