During the winter months our furry friends need special attention. Here are some helpful suggestions to keep them safe.
Dogs
Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a
snowstorm, dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are
lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure yours
always wears ID tags. Be sure to wipe of your dogs legs, stomach and feet
when he comes in from outdoors. Dangerous salt, antifreeze or other
chemicals could be on his paws and make them very ill or can be potentially
fatal.
Grooming is always an important part of your pet’s health. During the winter
months do not shave your dog to the skin as his coat is needed to keep them
warm. However, grooming does play an important part of your pets health, if
you have questions about grooming and if it’s safe during the winter months
ask one of our veterinarians or one of our groomers. When bathing make sure his is completely dry before letting him outside or taking him for a walk.
Puppies do not tolerate the cold as well as adult dogs, and may be difficult
to housebreak during the winter. If your puppy appears to be sensitive to
the weather, you may opt to paper-train him inside. If your dog is sensitive
to the cold due to age, illness or breed type (especially dogs with short
noses), take him outdoors only to relieve himself.Share This
Cats and Dogs
Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can
act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the
animal to freeze to death.
Pets that spend more time outside during the winter need to have proper
shelter and bedding. Sturdy dog houses with ample straw, blankets and always
fresh, unfrozen water available at all times. Sheds, garages or barns work
well for cats to get shelter from the elements. They also need warm bedding
and water available at all times. In severe cold weather bring your
companion animals in the house or a heated shed or garage.
If you know of animals without proper shelter or care please contact the
police or the McPherson County Humane Society. Hypothermia is a very real
and present danger here in Kansas. Wind chills can drop into the teens or
lower quickly and our animals depend on us to keep them safe!
