WINTER SAFETY TIPS FOR YOUR PET!

The cold winter months bring many hazards, for us and our furry friends. Here are a few tips to keeping your dog safe and comfortable this Holiday season!

• Antifreeze is highly poisonous to dogs! Be sure to clean up any spills in your garage or driveway, as dogs are very attracted to its taste and smell.


• Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are also poisonous to pets! Make sure they are kept well out of your dog’s reach.


• Short-coated dogs (Greyhounds, Dobermans, Boxers, etc.) should not go outside in very cold weather without a coat or sweater, except to relieve themselves. Small dogs with short coats (Chihuahuas, mini Pinschers, Dachshunds) are especially vulnerable to cold, and may not be able to tolerate any outdoor exercise in extremely cold weather.


• Dogs with long fur on the bottom of their paws often develop ice balls between pads and toes. To prevent this, trim hair around the feet. You may also apply small amounts of Vaseline, cooking oil, or PAM spray to the bottom of feet before walking in snow. Just make sure to use edible oil, most dogs will lick paws after you apply it!


• Be sure to wash your dog’s paws directly after walking on salted sidewalks, as rock salt can be very irritating to footpads.


• Feed your dog additional calories in winter if it spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. It takes more energy in winter to keep body temperature regulated.