Humane Society Shares Outdoor Pet Care Tips During Extreme Weather

The Impact of Extreme Weather

The Humane Society of the United States has shared important tips for the care of outdoor pets and animals as many parts of the nation face snowstorms, cold rain, and strong winds.

Tips for Pet Care During Winter

Residents of the Pacific Northwest were advised to avoid travel on Wednesday due to an impending ice storm that posed the risk of falling trees and treacherous mountain highways (Associated Press).

Here are some essential tips provided by the Humane Society:

• Keep your pets indoors with you and your family during the winter, especially cats who should not be left outside in freezing temperatures.
• Dogs should be taken out for walks and exercise, but kept inside the rest of the time.
• If your dog spends most of the day outdoors, provide them with a dry and draft-free shelter that is adequately sized and has an elevated floor covered with cedar shavings or straw. The doorway to the shelter should be covered with waterproof material.
• Ensure that outdoor pets have access to fresh and unfrozen water by routinely checking their water dish.
• Use plastic food and water bowls during low temperatures to prevent your pet’s tongue from sticking to metal.

Protecting Pets from Extreme Cold

Even short walks during extremely cold weather can be harmful to pets. Exposed skin on their noses, ears, and paw pads are at risk of frostbite and hypothermia. Dressing short-haired dogs in sweaters can provide them with additional warmth and protection.

Rock salt used to melt snow and ice can irritate a pet’s paws. Be sure to wipe your pet’s paws after a walk to prevent them from ingesting chemicals when licking their paws.

Other important precautions include:

• Antifreeze is toxic and should be cleaned up immediately if spilled. Use coolants and antifreeze made with propylene glycol, which are less harmful to pets.
• Dogs are at risk of salt poisoning due to the rock salt used in many areas. Wipe your dog’s paws after walking on salted surfaces and store de-icing salt in a safe place.
• Provide outdoor cats in your area with protection, food, and water. Bang on your car’s hood before starting the engine to avoid injuring any hidden animals seeking warmth.
• For horses, ensure they have access to shelter to escape the wind and cold. Blankets can help keep them warm and dry, especially if there is rain or snow. Provide horses with unfrozen water and increase their forage intake during extremely cold weather.

Take Action to Help

If you come across a pet left in extreme temperatures, politely express your concern to the owner. They may not be aware of the risks that cold weather poses to their pets. Follow these steps to help animals in need.