As the temperature drops, here are some important guidelines for protecting your pets from the cold weather. If your dog is an outdoor dog, provide proper housing. A doghouse should be dry and draft free. Your dog should have enough room to turn around and lie down comfortably, but be small enough to hold in body heat. The floor of the doghouse should be raised several inches off the ground. Also, the door should have a waterproof burlap or heavy plastic cover and be facing away from the wind.
Remember that calorie needs may increase in the winter for your outdoor dog as it is trying to stay warm and grow a thicker coat. Clean, thawed drinking water should always be available. Electric heated water bowls are available at several pet stores in the area.
Dog sweaters and booties are helpful for keeping small dogs and dogs with short hair warm during the winter. Remember that puppies, senior dogs and dogs with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, are less able to maintain body heat and should be protected from the cold.
Cats should be kept indoors during freezing weather. Their thin ears are easily frostbitten. Outdoor cats often seek shelter under the hoods of warm cars and can be seriously injured or killed. To scare away cats before starting the engine, check your vehicle, slap your hand on the hood or honk the horn. Stay alert for cats being locked in sheds or outbuildings.
