Human Society Officials Share Essential Outdoor Pet Care Tips for Eastern Iowa

by Barry Green

Friday, Jan 12th 2024

Extreme blizzard conditions are hitting eastern Iowa, making it crucial for pet owners to prioritize the safety and well-being of their outdoor pets. The Humane Society of the United States is providing valuable tips and helpful advice to ensure pets remain protected in these challenging weather conditions.

Keep Pets Warm and Indoors

It is vital to keep your pets indoors with you and your family during freezing temperatures. Although cats may be allowed outdoors during other seasons, they should be kept indoors during winter. Dogs, on the other hand, should be taken out for walks and exercise but should spend the rest of their time indoors. If your dog needs to be outside for any reason, provide them with a dry and draft-free shelter that is sufficiently spacious for them to move comfortably. The floor should be elevated a few inches from the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The doorway must be protected with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic. Additionally, outdoor pets require more food during winter to compensate for energy depletion. Make sure their water dish is routinely checked to ensure it is unfrozen and fresh. Opt for plastic food and water bowls as metal bowls can cause a pet’s tongue to stick and freeze in low temperatures.

Protection from Frostbite and Hypothermia

Even in seemingly mild temperatures, windchill poses a threat to the lives of pets. Noses, ears, and paw pads are particularly vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia during extremely cold snaps. To keep pets comfortable, consider dressing short-haired dogs in sweaters when going outside, even for short walks. Additionally, be cautious of using rock salt and other chemicals to melt ice and snow, as they can irritate your pet’s paw pads. Always wipe your pet’s paws with a damp towel to prevent them from licking irritants and potentially harming themselves.

Beware of Hazardous Chemicals

Antifreeze is a deadly poison that has a sweet taste, attracting both animals and children. Immediately clean up any antifreeze spills and store it, along with other household chemicals, out of reach. Opt for coolants and antifreeze made with propylene glycol, as they are less toxic to pets, wildlife, and your family. Furthermore, be aware that dogs are at risk of salt poisoning due to rock salt commonly used in many areas for de-icing. Always wipe your dog’s paws, even after short walks, to remove any rock salt. If your dog ingests rock salt, contact a veterinarian immediately.

Providing Care for Outdoor Cats and Horses

If there are outdoor cats in your area, it is crucial to ensure they have protection from the elements along with access to food and water. You can quickly create a cat shelter using the provided tips. Additionally, be cautious of warm car engines, as they can attract cats and small wildlife seeking shelter. Always bang on your car’s hood before starting the engine to give them a chance to escape.

Horses also require adequate protection during cold weather. Have a barn or three-sided run-in available for horses to escape the wind and chill. Blankets can help keep horses warm and dry, particularly if there is rain or snow. Clipped horses should be blanketed throughout the winter. Access to unfrozen water should be provided at all times, and heated buckets or water heaters/de-icers can be utilized to prevent freezing. Additionally, increase your horse’s forage intake during extreme cold to help generate heat and regulate their body temperature.

Taking Action to Help Animals in Need

If you come across a pet left outdoors in extreme temperatures, politely approach the owner and express your concerns. Educate them about the risks that cold weather poses to their pets or livestock. If necessary, follow the recommended steps to ensure the animal receives appropriate assistance.

Statements from Humane Society Officials

“Each year, as winter settles in and temperatures drop dangerously low, we hear heartbreaking stories about pets left in the cold,” said Kitty Block, President and CEO of the Humane Society of the United States. “In extremely cold conditions like we are seeing throughout much of the country this week, it is critical to keep pets safe from freezing temperatures and wind chill and to be aware of hazards to animals such as rock salt and antifreeze.”

“Ideally, pets should be kept indoors when outdoor temperatures are below freezing. However, wind chill can make the environment feel much colder to animals than the actual air temperature,” said Dr. Barbara Hodges of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association. “Juvenile and elderly pets, and those with chronic medical conditions are less able to thermoregulate and should be even more rigorously protected from the cold.”

Additional Resources

Stay updated on the latest weather conditions in eastern Iowa by clicking here. For more information about the Humane Society of the United States and their programs, click here.