Winter’s brisk temperatures pose unique challenges to pet owners, and while the snow and cold can be fun for your four-legged friend, winter weather can also be dangerous. Our team at Memorial Animal Hospital wants to help you ensure your pet enjoys this season while avoiding a weather-related emergency. Follow our do’s and don’ts to keep your pet safe and warm in the chill. 

DO dress your pet appropriately in the cold

Depending on the weather and their cold tolerance, some pets may benefit from a coat or sweater when heading out into the cold. Factors to consider include:

  • Breed and coat — Pet breeds with thick, dense fur, such as huskies or malamutes, are equipped to handle cold weather. However, breeds with short or thin coats, such as greyhounds or Chihuahuas, may struggle to retain heat and could benefit from extra layers.
  • Size and body fat – Small pets tend to lose heat more quickly than large ones. Similarly, pets with low body fat may not have enough natural insulation and might need a sweater or coat to stay warm.
  • Age and health — Senior and extremely young pets and those with health conditions may have difficulty regulating their body temperature. They often require additional warmth, such as being outfitted in a coat or sweater, when exposed to cold temperatures.

In addition to a coat or sweater, consider cold weather paw protection for your pet. Harsh winter conditions can cause various paw problems, such as dryness, cracking, or chemical burns, from de-icing chemicals used on sidewalks and streets. To protect your pet’s paws during cold weather, follow these tips:

  • Wipe your pet’s paws — Wipe your pet’s paws with a clean, dry towel after outings, ensuring you remove material from between their toes and paw pads. Also, remove all ice and salt caked in their coat. 
  • Protect your pet’s paws — Protect your pet’s paws with booties, ensuring that they fit well and don’t rub or cause blisters. If your pet won’t tolerate boots, use paw balm for protection and to treat dry and cracked skin.
  • Use pet-friendly deicers — Some deicers don’t contain salt or chloride, making them safe for pets. Check the label to ensure you choose pet-friendly household products.

DON’T let your pet off leash near frozen bodies of water

Winter walks can be risky if you’re near frozen lakes, rivers, or ponds. Frozen water poses several threats to pets. Ice may not be as stable as it looks, and if a pet falls through, they are at high risk for drowning, hypothermia, and frostbite. Protect your pet on outings by keeping them leashed, so they can’t run across frozen bodies of water. 

DO clean up antifreeze spills to protect your pet

Ethylene glycol, a compound in most antifreeze preparations, is extremely toxic to pets. Even if your pet ingests only a small amount of this sweet-tasting fluid, they can experience acute (i.e., sudden) kidney failure. Sadly, the condition is fatal without immediate and aggressive treatment. Store antifreeze and other products that contain ethylene glycol (e.g., motor oil, windshield deicer, hydraulic brake fluid) out of your pet’s reach and clean up spills immediately.

DON’T overgroom your pet

While regular grooming is important, overgrooming during the winter can remove essential oils from your pet’s coat, which are vital for insulation against the cold. Frequent bathing can also dry out your pet’s skin. During the winter, just spot clean and brush your pet’s coat to keep their fur and skin healthy.

DO ensure your pet wears identification 

As snow and ice blanket the ground, they also cover familiar scents that could lead your lost pet back home. Avoid the heartbreak of a missing pet by ensuring they wear a collar and identification tags that have your current contact information. Microchipping is also a great way to provide permanent identification for your pet and increases your chances of getting them back if they go missing. 

DON’T leave your pet unattended near an open flame

During winter, many of us use fireplaces or candles to create a warm ambiance. Your pet is likely to curl up in front of the fireplace to enjoy the warmth but watch them closely to ensure they don’t get too close. Curious pets may be tempted to paw at the wavering light and end up with singed whiskers or burnt paws. Never leave your pet unattended near an open flame, and ensure your fireplace has a secure screen to block sparks or embers that could injure your pet. 

Ensuring your pet’s safety is a year-round commitment. Contact our Memorial Animal Hospital team for more cold safety tips or to schedule your pet’s next wellness exam.