Tips For Winterizing Your Dog

It's beginning to get cooler in many locations around the world and as such it is also time to plan for all your outside animals' safety. As with all mammals, the winter months pose a particular disadvantage - most especially to those outside pets many of us may already have.

Below, you'll find a few tips to help you get ready for the winter months in your area and to help you get your pet ready for the transition from fall to winter.

First, store all antifreeze type products safely out of the way of ANY animal. When using antifreeze, be careful concerning spills and wipe up any amounts quickly and completely. The sweet taste and smell is hard to pass up for any pet.

Next, keep all indoor pets in an area free of drafts. Elevating you pets favorite bedding area is just one way to help your pet stay warm.

Keep all your outdoor pets in an insulated type area, free of drafts, that is warm and dry and protects the pet from the wind. In extreme conditions, bring the animal(s) indoors to protect it from the elements.

Very important: always maintain a good supply of clean, fresh, and unfrozen, drinking water for your pet. Remove ice, mud, salt and any other irritants from your pets coat as soon as you notice them. If you suspect frostbite, contact your veterinarian immediately.

You may not know it, but feeding requirements change drastically in the winter months for pets too - caloric needs increase to help keep the animal warm. If you're unsure you can always ask your veterinarian for further advice concerning caloric needs and winter feeding routines.

Also during the holiday season, be very careful to keep your pet away from any kinds of alcoholic beverages, chocolate, fish and poultry bones.

Many holiday plants are toxic to your pets too. Keep these out of the reach of your pet. Keep tinsel, glass ornaments and other holiday decorations out of your pets reach as well. You'd be surprised just what a curious pet may eat. Another thing, place all electrical cords in out of the way spots.

Remember too that cats and kittens or even your dogs may sleep underneath, or within your car, during the colder times of the year. Before leaving always knock on the hood, honk the horn lightly and wait a few minutes before starting the engine and look around and underneath the car before leaving for your destination. It's always better to be safe than sorry.

Most pets can easily survive the colder weather without you but with your help, those that are older, very young, ill or injured can successfully make it through the winter months as well. Take a little extra time, plan ahead, provide for them as needed, think of their needs and they should do fine.