Preparing for Cold Weather If You Have Pets:
A Checklist for Pet Safety
When temperatures drop below freezing, Fort Worth Animal Care & Control urges pet owners to take extra precautions to keep their furry family members safe and comfortable in the cold weather. To help, we’ve created a detailed checklist to ensure your pets stay protected from the harsh elements.
1. Bring All Pets Inside When It’s Below 20 Degrees
When temperatures dip below 20 degrees, it's essential to bring all pets inside. For puppies, kittens, and shorthaired pets, it’s crucial to bring them inside when the temperature falls below 35 degrees. Cold weather can be especially dangerous for these pets, and if it's too cold for you, it’s too cold for them.
Additionally, consider using coats, sweaters, or indoor training pads to help them stay warm. A warm and cozy indoor environment is the safest option during extreme cold.
2. Groom Longhaired Pets to Maintain Warmth
While longhaired pets may seem well-equipped to handle cold weather, it's important to keep their coats properly groomed to ensure they maintain warmth. Avoid heavy matting, as it can hinder their fur’s ability to insulate and trap heat. Regular grooming helps them stay comfortable and safe in colder temperatures.
3. Provide Shelter for Outdoor Pets
If your pets live outdoors, it’s crucial to provide proper shelter to protect them from the cold. The shelter should be elevated off the ground to prevent the cold from seeping up. Additionally, ensure the shelter has three enclosed sides and ample bedding to keep your pet warm and shielded from the wind.
Opt for a snug pet house for better heat retention. Larger spaces tend to lose heat quickly, so keeping your pet in a small, well-insulated area can help them stay warmer.
4. Ensure Fresh Water Access
Pets can suffer from dehydration in cold weather, just as they can in the heat of summer. Dehydration can lead to serious health issues like kidney failure. Ensure your pets always have access to fresh water, and use heated water bowls to prevent the water from freezing.
5. Wipe Paws Exposed to Ice and Salt
When your pets go outside in winter weather, their paws can become exposed to melted ice and harmful chemicals like road salt. These substances can cause irritation, blistering, and even be harmful if ingested. After outdoor walks, be sure to wipe your pet's paws thoroughly to prevent these risks. Keep a close eye out for any signs of discomfort, such as limping or licking their paws excessively.
6. Keep Cats Indoors and Check for Hiding Spots
Extreme cold can be especially dangerous for outdoor cats. It’s best to keep them indoors during freezing weather. Cats are notorious for seeking out warm hiding spots in unexpected places, such as under car hoods. Before starting your vehicle, make sure to check under the hood to prevent accidental injuries to your pet.
7. Leash Dogs in Cold Weather
When taking your dog outdoors in cold weather, always keep them on a leash. This prevents accidents, such as falling through ice or getting lost in snowy conditions. Additionally, ensure that your dog wears ID tags with up-to-date contact information in case they become separated from you during winter walks.
8. Never Leave Pets in Vehicles
It’s never safe to leave your pet in a vehicle, whether it's hot or cold outside. In cold weather, vehicles can quickly become frigid, and the enclosed space increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning or hypothermia. Always bring your pet inside with you, even for short errands.
9. Protect Older Pets
Older pets, particularly those with arthritis, may feel the effects of winter more than younger animals. The cold can exacerbate joint pain, making outdoor exposure more uncomfortable. Limit their time outside during extreme weather and provide additional warmth through blankets, heating pads, or indoor space where they can relax comfortably.
10. Monitor Pets Around Heat Sources
While it’s important to keep pets warm during cold weather, be cautious around heat sources. Pets can easily get too close to space heaters, fireplaces, or other heat sources, putting them at risk for burns. Always supervise your pets when they are near a heat source, and make sure to provide safe alternatives, like heated beds or warm blankets.
11. Prepare for Winter Emergencies
Winter weather can bring unexpected challenges, such as power outages, snowstorms, or icy conditions. Prepare an emergency kit that includes pet food, water, medications, and other essentials in case you need to keep your pet indoors for an extended period. Being prepared for emergencies can help ensure your pet’s safety if the weather turns severe.
12. Increase Their Caloric Intake
In colder weather, outdoor pets may burn more calories as they work harder to maintain body heat. Ensure that your pet is eating a nutritious, well-balanced diet that supports their energy needs. If your pet spends a lot of time outdoors, consider increasing their food intake to compensate for the additional energy they’re expending to stay warm.
13. Watch Out for Antifreeze Spills
Antifreeze is highly toxic to pets and can be deadly if ingested. Be vigilant for antifreeze spills in driveways or garages and take immediate action if you spot any. Dilute antifreeze with water, sweep it away, and cover the area with soil to prevent pets from licking it. If you suspect your pet has consumed any antifreeze, contact a veterinarian immediately.
14. Report Animals in Distress
If you encounter an animal in distress during cold weather, it’s essential to act quickly. To report an animal in need, call 817-392-1234, email the Call Center, or use the MyFW app.
By taking these simple yet effective steps, you can ensure your pets remain safe, warm, and comfortable throughout the winter season. As the temperatures drop, remember: if it's too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pets!