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As I write this, Texas is buckling down and waiting for the biggest winter weather event in history of our state so I thought it would be a great time to share a few winter weather tips for pets to keep them safe in the cold.
It is typical for us to receive some cold weather in the winter, but NOTHING like is headed our way. Multiple days of sub freezing temperatures and almost a foot of snow. For my friends in the North, they are likely used to navigating this weather but not true for us Southern Folk! It is a great time to remind pet parents of winter weather tips for pets to keep them safe in the winter.
Here are four winter weather tips to for pets
Bundle them up
We are not the only ones that should be bundled up before going outside. Before sending out your pets to play especially for an extended period of time, make sure they put on a good insulated coat and waterproof paw booties if possible.
Another option for their paws is to treat them before and after exposure with a paw balm, we love Organic Pawtection! If you don’t go out without a coat and boots, be mindful of protecting them as well!
Wipe them down
Once your pets are finished playing or doing their business outside, make sure to wipe them down when they return to the house. Wiping them down will make sure they don’t remain wet and at risk for hypothermia as well as remove any contaminants on their fur and paws.
This is really important if your pets are around salt, antifreeze or de-icers! These chemicals can be poisonous to your pet and leaving them on their fur and paws can be a recipe for disaster. In addition, use this time to inspect their paws for any cracks or injuries. It is a great time to reapply the Organic Pawtection!
Limit their exposure
The Humane Society suggests that you should never leave pets outside for long periods of time when it gets cold. JUST DON’T DO IT! It does not mean you have to bring your pet into your bed, but please do not leave your pets outside when temperatures are below freezing.
Leaving pets outside when temperatures are below freezing for more than 30 minutes is a crime! Even though our cat is primarily an outdoor cat, we have brought him in until it warms up. If you want to play with your pet outdoors, limit the sessions to 30 minutes or less in the extreme cold. In my opinion, this is the most important winter weather tips for pets! It is fine to take your pets out to play, just limit their exposure.
Adjust their food and water
During play in the cold, pets expend more energy so it is important for them to get some additional nutrition in them during the cold when they are active. Adding in some high quality Salmon Oil is a great way to increase energy and joint support during the winter months! Of course, make sure they have access to clean, fresh unfrozen water! This can be tricky if their water is kept outside.
My pets LOVE to play in the snow. Although snow is fairly uncommon in North Texas, the occasional snow does happen and we it is a fun time at our house. As long as I obey these winter weather tips for pets, it is an enjoyable time of the year for us!
Make sure to check back to see my pictures for the big snow!
