When the weather outside turns frightfully cold and filled with winter precipitation, it’s no walk in the park. Not for you, and not for your cat or dog. In fact, your pets can be far more vulnerable to wintertime maladies than you might even realize.
So take just a couple of minutes to read and perhaps even print these tried and true techniques for wintertime pet care:
- Have your pet examined by a vet at least once a year, especially during the winter months as the cold weather can exacerbate medical conditions such as arthritis.
- Know your pet’s limits. If it’s too cold for you to be out for an extended period of time, it’s probably too cold for your pet as well.
- Give your pets safe and warm sleeping options, as their preferences may change depending on the season.
- Before starting your car, honk the horn or bang on the hood to encourage felines to flee their hiding spot. Also, check under your car for any pets seeking shelter before pulling out of your driveway.
- Check your pet’s paws frequently for signs of cold-weather injury, such as cracked paw pads or bleeding. Also, wash and wipe down their feet and belly to remove anything that might have accumulated during an outdoor frolic.
- Snow and ice can disguise recognizable scents that would normally help a pet find its way home. Make sure your pet has an up-to-date microchip or well-fitting collar with correct identification and contact info.
- Be prepared for severe winter weather by having a well-stocked disaster/emergency kit for your pet. Have enough clean drinking water, food, plus any medications your pet might need to get through at least 5 days.
Another way to protect your pets and family at the same time is by calling DiBiase Heating & Cooling to request our heating system cleaning and inspection service. It’s a great way to stop home heating problems before they start, and to make sure that everyone stays nice and warm and cozy – at least indoors – all winter long.