Cold weather precautions aren’t just for humans. Our four-legged friends depend on us to pay attention to chilly temperatures and protect them from weather-related harm during the winter. 

Winter affects animals, just like it affects people, so, as a general rule, if it’s too cold for you to go outside, it is likely too cold for your pets. If you’re bundling up, consider that your pet might need an extra layer as well!

A pet’s tolerance to the cold can vary greatly. Healthier, larger pets, those with thicker or darker coats, or a higher activity level will often tolerate cold better than smaller pets, those with lighter coats, especially old or young pets, or those with health issues. Because exposure to harsh winter conditions can cause serious illness to our pets, particularly during periods of freezing rain and rapid temperature fluctuations it is important to take the proper precautions. This will help keep our faithful companions warm, comfortable and safe this winter. Here are some helpful tips and advice.

Keep Your Pets Warm

• For most pets, if the temperature is below freezing, they should not be left outside for an extended amount of time. Introduce your pets gradually to lower temperatures. This is especially true for cats, short-coated dogs, puppies and elderly canines.
• A comfortable, well-fitting dog sweater or coat for your dog will provide an extra layer of warmth. Consider using “booties” to protect your pets’ paws.
• After spending time outside in the snow, give your pet a good towel dry, including their belly. Be sure to clean, dry and inspect their paws, as salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice on roads and sidewalks can irritate and injure their sensitive paws. It is important to regularly trim the bits of fur in between your dog’s toes, where salt can get stuck.
• If your dog needs a bath during winter months, make sure they are completely dry before they go outside. Also, never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth.
• If you’re not sure how to determine what is too long to be outside with your dog, the best way is to monitor your pet while they’re outside in the cold. Keep a close eye on their behaviour and if you notice your dog shivering, acting anxious, whining, slowing down, searching out warm locations, or holding up one or more paws, it’s time to head inside and warm up.



DID YOU KNOW? Dogs can lose their scent trail and easily become lost during a snowstorm. Don’t let your dog off leash on any ice or snow.

Avoid Car Hazards

• Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during extreme temperatures. Cars hold in the cold, acting like refrigerators, which could cause your pet to freeze.
• Antifreeze and rock salt help make it easier to navigate our way through ice and snow, but they contain chemicals that can be poisonous to your pets. Cats especially, are attracted to the taste of antifreeze. Take a proactive approach to your pets’ exposure to them by cleaning up puddles of antifreeze in your garage or driveway, and always recapping the container when not in use.
• Cats have been known to seek warmth under vehicle hoods. Make a point of knocking on the hood or sounding the horn before starting the engine. This will warn any cats who may be hiding beneath your vehicle.


Additional Precautions

• Ensure your pet always has a warm place to sleep away from drafts and off the floor. A thick cozy bed with a blanket or pillow is great.
• Pets are just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as they are in the summer, so be sure to provide plenty of fresh water. Snow is not a substitute for water.
• Your pet may expend more energy in the winter to keep warm or less energy if they’re not active and primarily inside. Adjust food quantities accordingly.
• Call your veterinarian if you notice any signs of frostbite or hypothermia, such as sluggishness, confusion, severe shivering or parts of the body that appear pale and are cool to the touch.

With these tips you and your pets are ready to enjoy winter together. Have a healthy, safe and fun time outside!