When temperature drops, protecting yourself from the freezing cold becomes a must. But don't forget when the weather is too cold for you, then it is also too cold for your furry friends. So, remaining within indoors is much safer for your pets.
However, too often, pet owners still take their little friends outside as part of their daily routine. Then, if going outside is really a necessity, you should follow these tips to protect your pets from the 'potentially harmful cold'.
Dress your pet
According to Prairie Winds Veterinarian, Alicia Wisnewski, temperature with less than negative 10 can lead to frostbite -- appearing within ten minutes or less and usually affecting animals' tail, ear and nose. Thus, it is important to dress your pet with sweater or coat for outdoors to help them retain their body heat. Dressing them can also prevent their skin from drying.
Nourish your pet
Make sure to feed your pets a little bit more food during the cold season to help them produce the energy they need to stay warm. Also, always keep them hydrated by giving them a lot of water. This will keep their skin moisturized during the cold season. And always remember to routinely check the food dish to ensure that the water is unfrozen.
Keep them away from salt and chemicals
Whenever you're planning to go outside with your pets, put booties on their feet to protect them from the salt and other winter chemicals. You can also use petroleum jelly if wearing booties isn't an option. Just rub the jelly into their paws before taking them outside. Then after strolling, make sure to clean the feet of your little friend before they lick it and subsequently will irritate their mouth.
Provide them with warm shelter
Make sure that they can comfortably sleep with their bed. If they are sleeping outside and the bitterly cold weather is expected, bring them inside right away.
All these and more for your furry friends -- making them feel warm, nourished and hydrated this season!
