Pets Dog and Cat Protection This Winter & Tips on Building a Better Doghouse for Shelter

tr> It has been so cold this winter that escaped prisoners are turning themselves back in to avoid freezing temperatures, reports a Kentucky media outlet! Some parts of the country have recorded temperatures comparable to the Antarctic coast in the winter. Providing cat protection and dog protection is the best way of keeping pets safe in winter weather.

The Hazards of Winter Weather During the coldest days, even my young German Shepherd only poked her nose outside for a few minutes before barking her desire to get back in. I am careful being outside during the winter, and always remember that it is even worse for our pets as they do not have mitts, scarves, long underwear and warm galoshes to keep them warm.

1. Large ice balls can form between pads when dogs walk in snow, causing them to limp. 2.Chemical de-icers and salt used on sidewalks and roadways can irritate paws; ingesting these chemicals can cause stomach upsets. 3. Pets cannot tell the difference between safe and thin ice; falling in a body of water is a life-threatening danger. 4.Even walking on ice can damage paws. 5.Licking up spilled antifreeze is often fatal. 6.Cats might seek the comfort of a warm engine, (scare them off by banging on the hood before starting the car). 7.Arthritis in your pet will be aggravated with cold weather.

Keeping Pets Safe in Winter There are a number of common sense tips for cat protection and dog protection in winter: 1.When the temperature drops, do not leave pets outdoors. 2.Use sweaters and other protective pet clothing when taking them for walks. 3.If a dog is outside for any period, be sure it has access to a draft-free and dry shelter. 4.Pets spending time outdoors will need more water and food for added energy. 5.Use plastic or rubber food and water bowls outside to prevent your pet's tongue from freezing to metal The best way to protect pets in winter is to keep them inside with you. 1.Following basic guidelines will help in keeping pets safe in winter weather. Taking extra precautions will ensure that the four-footed members of your family stay warm and safe. Everybody can then enjoy a happier, healthier winter.

2.Size it right. If the doghouse is too big, the dog’s body temperature isn’t going to keep him warmed up. It should be just big enough for the dog to get in there, turn around and lie down comfortably.

3.Build it tight. To keep your pooch cozy, the house should be well-built and waterproof. Line the floor with some kind of easily cleaned, warmth-retaining lining like straw or wood shavings to keep down heat loss through the floor and also to give him something he can burrow down into to build up warmth. 4.Raise it high. The doorway should be high enough off the ground to prevent water from flowing in. It should also be fairly small to minimize heat loss. To make it even more secure, hang plastic flap to keep the wind from whipping through. In addition, vets recommend putting a roof over the “porch” to provide some protection for pets that don’t know enough to come in from the cold.

The most expensive doghouse in the wont do any good if your pet refuses to use it. It should be warm and cozy—large enough for him to turn around in yet small enough to make him feel snug and warm.

Following basic guidelines will help in keeping pets safe in winter weather. Taking extra precautions will ensure that the four-footed members of your family stay warm and safe. Everybody can then enjoy a happier, healthier winter.