Michigan is known for cold weather and winter storms. When you have pets, you need to plan for these events. Here are some tips from American Humane (2024):
- Keep your pet preparedness kit well-stocked and ready because when a winter storm hits, you may not be able to leave your home for a few days.
- Leave your pet’s coat longer in the winter to provide greater warmth.
- When your dog has a bath, completely dry him/her before going outside.
- Keep your dogs on a leash! More dogs are lost in the winter than any other season. Part of the reason is it is easier for dogs to lose their scent and get lost (ASPCA, 2024).
- Keep your pets inside. Just because they have fur does not mean they can withstand cold weather, especially for prolonged periods.
- When coming in from a walk, thoroughly wipe (or better yet, wash) your dogs’ paws. Ice balls can cause frostbite, and de-icers can be toxic.
The AVMA (2024) adds:
- Sweaters are a great option for dogs with shorter coats.
- Know your pet’s tolerance for the cold and adjust accordingly.
- Take shorter walks in cold weather.
We all know the dangers of a hot car, but many do not realize that a cold car can turn into an ice box (ASPCA, 2024). Extreme cold can cause your pet to become disoriented, lost or injured, even in a short period of time. It does not take as long as you may think for your pet to freeze to death outside or when left in a cold car.
Itchy, flakey skin can result from going out in cold weather then coming into a warm house. You can mitigate this with a home humidifier. Paws are particularly at risk. The ASPCA (2024) recommends paw pads or booties for walks; rubbing petroleum jelly or other vet-approved paw protectants can also help dry, cracked pads on the bottom of your dog’s paws. The ASPCA also recommends that you bathe your dog as little as possible so they can maintain their natural, essential oils, and when you do bathe your dog, use a veterinarian recommended shampoo with moisturizer.
The AVMA (2024) reminds us to avoid frozen lakes, ponds and streams, and if a pet gets loose and breaks through ice, do NOT attempt a rescue by yourself. Call 9-1-1 and let the professionals rescue your furry friend.
When cats are outside, they often will curl up inside the hood of a car or truck to find warmth. Always check under your vehicle, bang the lid, honk your horn, make some noise, etc. to dislodge any unknown visitors before starting your car (American Red Cross, 2024; AVMA, 2024). Keep in mind that cats are smaller and generally have less body fat to keep them warm. The best way to protect your cat is to keep it inside.
Unless you know you have pet-friendly antifreeze or de-icer, wipe up spills immediately because most of these products are deadly to animals (American Red Cross, 2024; ASPCA, 2024; AVMA, 2024).
Keeping your dog outside should be avoided if possible (American Red Cross, 2024). However, if your dog is outside for prolonged periods during the winter, make sure they have a solid, warm shelter with an elevated bed and unlimited access to fresh, non-frozen water. The door to the shelter should be positioned away from prevailing winds. Heaters, heat lamps, and heated pet mats should be used with caution (whether inside or outside) as they can burn your pet or start a fire. Even inside your pet needs a warm place to sleep that is off the ground and away from drafts (ASPCA, 2024).
Another thing to keep in mind is it takes more energy to stay warm, so your dog may need more calories (ASPCA, 2024; AVMA, 2024). Check with your veterinarian for appropriate food and portion size.
Per the American Red Cross (2024), if your pet is whining, shivering, anxious, slower than usual or stops moving, seems weak or starts looking for warm places to burrow, they may be showing signs of hypothermia. Frostbite is harder to detect and may not be fully recognized until a few days after the damage is done. If you suspect your pet has hypothermia or frostbite, consult your veterinarian immediately.
If you are looking for a vet, our mission statement is YOUR PETS’ HEALTH IS OUR TOP PRIORITY, and we are currently accepting new clients.
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References:
American Humane, 11-13-24, https://www.americanhumane.org/fact-sheet/cold-weather-pet-tips/
American Red Cross, 1-18-24, https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/news/Winter-Safety-Tips-for-Your-Pets.html?srsltid=AfmBOopIwl_cAb4Nw7Zb0I8YNVFe7h68MncmAggYYjWk1FbmnMN5iB7g
ASPCA, 11-13-24, https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/cold-weather-safety-tips
AVMA, 11-13-24, https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/cold-weather-animal-safety