Every year hundreds of animals die because they are left outside in the cold. Even though they bare thick fur coats, dogs, cats and other animals can still suffer from frostbite and die from exposure. Long cold spells are especially hard on ‘backyard dogs’ that often do not get adequate food, water or shelter.
It is important that during these extreme cold spells we take extra steps to protect our four legged friends. Here are few simple tips to protect your pet during Jack Frosts fit.
The biggest tip is to bring smaller animals such as puppies and kittens, also elderly pets inside.If you do not want them in the house put them in a garage or basement until the weather warms up.
Don't allow your cat or dog to roam freely outdoors. During winter, cats sometimes climb under the hoods of cars to be near warm engines and are badly injured or killed when the car is started.
- Wipe off your dogs' or cats' legs, feet, and stomachs after they come in from the snow. Salt and other chemicals can make your animals sick if they ingest them. You should also increase animals' food rations during the winter because they are burning more calories to keep warm.
- Keep an eye out for strays. Take unidentified animals inside until you can find their guardians or get them to an animal shelter. If strays are skittish or otherwise unapproachable, provide food and water and call your local humane society for assistance in trapping them and getting them indoors.
- When temperatures fall below freezing, birds and other animals may have trouble finding food and water. Hang bird feeders from trees or spread birdseed on the ground. Provide access to liquid water by filling a heavy water bowl and breaking the surface ice twice a day.
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