Keep your pets warm this winter!

Winter is here and even though your furry friends may have a ‘built-in coat’ it’s still a good idea to be mindful of how you can keep them as warm and comfortable as possible. We’ve rounded up our five best tips for keeping your pets warm in cold weather!  

Keep your pets indoors 

 If it’s too cold for you to be outside then it’s probably too cold for your pet! Especially during snowy weather, it’s critical to keep your pets indoors where they are protected from the elements.  

When keeping your pets indoors, make sure you are mindful of potential hazards such as heaters and electrical cords which should be kept out of reach. You should also keep a close eye on your pets if you use a fireplace as our pets might not understand that flames can be dangerous. If you need to leave your pet home alone indoors then make sure all heaters are fireplaces are turned off as they can easily turn into a fire hazard when knocked by your pet.  

Looking for ways to keep your pet entertained inside? Why not splurge and give them a new toy! You could even try a couple of our DIY enrichment toy ideas here. 

Watch your pet’s food intake  

 If your pets are in a chilly environment throughout the winter, they may require more calories to maintain their core body temperature.
 

For example, dogs tend to shiver when cold, which is a heat-maintenance mechanism that uses a lot of energy, resulting in your dog using extra fat for insulation. As a result, your dog may lose weight and perhaps become sick if it is fed the same amount as in the summer but uses more energy to remain warm during winter. If you’re not sure how much you should be feeding your dog, be sure to ask your local veterinarian for advice. 

 Your pets can also just as easily become dehydrated in winter as they can in summer. Always make sure your pet has access to fresh water and remember that snow is not an alternative.  

Protect your pet’s paws  

Even though your dog may be happy snuggled up by the heater, your pets still need their daily exercise which often means taking them outside.  

When taking your pets out for walks, try to keep these walks shorter during snow time. A great option for paw protection is booties for your dog if they are comfortable wearing them.  You can even have them practise wearing them around the house to get more used to wearing them!  

In the rare chance that you notice signs of lameness in their legs, cracked or bleeding paws this could be a result of cold-weather damage and will require immediate first-aid.
 

Don’t leave your pets in the car  

Due to their smaller body sizes, pets are not able to generate heat as well as their owners. As a result, their core body temperatures can quickly drop several degrees if left inside a cold vehicle. 

In cold weather, a car behaves like a refrigerator, and soon your car will become colder than the air outside, leading your pet to freeze.  

Always check under your car

During the winter months, cats, in particular, may find your car to be a warm and inviting spot to cuddle. 

Many have been discovered hidden beneath the hood, on top of the wheels, and in other tight spots in vehicles. To avoid hurting any cats seeking warmth, don’t forget to look under your car and beat on the hood before starting your engine. 

Even if you don’t have a cat, this is a good idea if you park on the street as stray cats may seek your cat for shelter.   

By following these simple tips- you can make this winter a warm one for your pets!