How to keep your pet protected from the cold during winter

Every pet deserves a loving and respectful home: please only consider acquiring a pet if you will be able to take care of its long-term needs. Also, consider choosing your animal companion from a shelter, where there are so many wonderful furry friends who need a forever home.

Pets can suffer from frost bite or hypothermia if the temperature drops significantly and they are left outside or exposed to the elements for too long.

Their ears, nose, and paws (or any other exposed area) should be covered for protection from the wind and cold. When the temperature drops, ideally you want to keep animals indoors. Of course, dogs enjoy walks all year round, and this activity should be a part of their daily routine, but should be kept shorter in the winter.

Smaller dogs and short-haired dogs can wear a jacket or sweater to maintain the correct body temperature. Both dogs and cats do well with a designated space or bed in the house to return to and warm up in after they’ve been outside.

Strive always to wash your pets’ paws and nose to keep them clear of anti-freeze, and supply them with extra food on days when they’ve spent a lot of time outside – the cold does burn extra calories.

Ultimately, remember… if it’s too cold for you, assume it will be too cold for your pets, as well.

View the original video here.

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