Opinions

Winter is Coming: Safety Tips for Animals

Sophia Rauchle, Online Editor in Chief|November 30, 2016

Hank, a short haired dog, enjoys the snow with a sweater on.

Winter is coming. Keeping our pets warm in the frigid temperature can be challenging, however, there are many tips that can aid people in keeping their pets safe. Here are a few key tips to keep in mind this upcoming winter.

Frostbite is a deadly condition that arises when people or animals are exposed to cold temperatures for too long. There are early signs of frostbite which include, firm/waxy skin and blisters, according to PetMD. If any signs of frostbite are seen, get your animal to a warm place immediately.

When a pet reenters the home after being outside, make sure to pay special attention to their paws and remove any snow that may have built up. Also, make sure to thoroughly wipe off their paws after walking on areas that may contain salts or other chemicals as it can harm their paw pads, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).

According to the Humane Society, animals are attracted to the heat underneath a running car’s hood, make sure to lightly bang on it to scare away any animals that may be hiding underneath of it.

For older or arthritic pets, try to limit the amount of time walking on slippery surfaces as they are more likely to slip or fall, according to the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMA)

According to the Human Society, if an animal must be kept outside, make sure that it is protected by a draft-free shelter that allows the animal to stand and sit comfortably. However, it also needs to be smaller so that the shelter can hold their body heat. It should also include a doorway that is thick enough to protect against the elements.

Animals who stay outside should also get fed more food as the harsh cold can deplete their energy faster than usual, according to ASPCA.

In the winter, ASPCA states that you shouldn’t leave pets inside the car like in the summer because vehicles may act as a refrigerator and hold in the cold. Make sure to never leave an animal unattended in a car, even for a short period of time.

The wintertime can be fun if both pets and their owners are happy and healthy. Just remember to careful watch your animal counterparts and be aware of winter threats.