Winterizing Your Dog
Debbie Ray
It’s beginning to get cooler and as such it is also time to plan
for all your outside animals’ safety. As with all mammals, the
winter months pose a particular disadvantage -most especially to
those outside pets many of us have.
Below, you’ll find a few tips to help you get ready for the
winter months and to help your pet in the transition from fall to
winter.
First, store all antifreeze type products safely out of the way
of any animal. When using antifreeze, be careful concerning
spills and wipe up any amounts quickly and completely. The sweet
taste and smell is hard to pass up for any pet. Next, keep all
indoor pets in an area free of draft. Elevating you pets favorite
bedding area is one way to help your pet stay warm. Keep all your
outdoor pets in an insulated type area, free of drafts, that is
warm and dry and protects the pet from the wind. In extreme
conditions, bring the animal (s) indoors to protect it from the
elements.
Always maintain a good supply of clean, fresh, and unfrozen,
drinking water. Remove ice, mud, salt and any other irritants
from your pets coat ASAP. If you suspect frostbite, contact your
veterinarian immediately.
Feeding requirements change drastically in the winter months-
caloric needs may even increase to help the animal stay warm. Ask
your veterinarian for further advice concerning caloric needs.
Also during the holidays, be careful to keep your pet away from
alcoholic beverages, chocolate, fish and poultry bones.
Many holiday plants are toxic to your pets. Keep these out of the
reach of your pet. Keep tinsel, glass ornaments and other holiday
decorations out of your pets reach. Place all electrical cords in
out of the way spots. Remember that cats and kittens or your dogs
may sleep underneath your car. Before leaving always knock on
the hood, honk the horn lightly and wait a few minutes before
starting the engine.
Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.
Debbie Ray, owner of:
http://www.pedigreedpups.com is a lifetime
dog lover and owner and breeder of german shepherd dogs for over
15 years.
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