Pets of the Week
Keep your pets safe during the winter
YORK - Winter is here and that means cold temperatures, snow and ice, and many treacherous items and situations, not just for you, but also for your companion animals.The Animal Welfare Society wants to help you keep those furry friends safe during this winter season.
Below are some helpful tips to keep Fluffy and Rover healthy, happy and warm!
Just like us, cats, dogs and other animals also need protection from the cold. Most animals should be kept inside as much as possible when the temperature plummets. Doghouse floors should be elevated from the ground and there should be a flap to cover the doorway, as well as soft, dry bedding inside. No dog should be kept outside all of the time.
Rabbits should also be indoor animals, at least in a dry basement during the cold months. The key to remember is that animals feel the cold just as much as we do. Their fur helps protect them a bit, but it is still not enough.
Another thing to note is the outdoor water bowl. If your animal has a drinking bowl that is left outside, remember to check it often. An ice-filled bowl won't satisfy a thirsty dog or cat.
Some other winter threats to animals include some common chemicals you find around the home and garage. Antifreeze tastes sweet to animals, but can be deadly. Make sure to wipe up any drips or spills and to rinse off spots where antifreeze has been. Icy driveways and walkways can be treated with salt, but did you know that it is an irritant to your pets? Make sure you wipe off your pets' feet after an outdoor adventure. Also remove any ice that may be caught between toe pads on their feet. Ice chips can cut sensitive toes.
Please remember that chocolate of any kind, coffee, onions, salty and fatty foods, yeast dough and cooked bones are not good for your pets.
In your garage, honk your car horn or slap on the hood to make sure there isn't a cat curled up on the engine for warmth. Also be aware that animals trapped in the garage while your car is heating up can be subject to carbon monoxide poisoning.
With these simple tips, you and your animals can have a safe and happy winter season.
The Animal Welfare Society also recommends that your animals wear collars with identifying tags to make sure that in the event of a lost pet, you are reunited with them as quickly as possible.
For more information on pet care tips, please visit the Animal Welfare Society at www.animalwelfaresociety.org or call us at 985-3244.
