Pets and Extreme Cold Weather

Here in the North East we are getting extreme cold weather temperatures.  Please be reminded that indoor pets are not accustom to these really cold temperatures. 

Some things to remember:

1. Don't let your pets stay out to long.
2. Check feet for salt and snowballs when coming in the house.
3. Little dogs can freeze quickly.
4. Never leave your pet in the car for extended periods of time.  If you can run into a store and be out in 15 minutes of less, leave them home.
5. If your dog spend a lot of time engaged in outdoor activities, Increase his supply of food, particularly protein, to keep him, and his fur, in good shape by brushing daily.
6. Antifreeze is a lethal poison for dogs and cats. Be sure to thoroughly clean up any spills from your vehicle, and consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.  The antifreeze is sweet and pets will lap it up.  If that happens - rush your pet to the nearest vets office.
7. During the cold winter months, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or even killed by the fan belt. If you have outdoor cats in your area its good to bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give the cat a chance to escape.

1.  If you play around ponds, lakes of streams, Never let your dog off the leash. Also its best to never let them off leash especially during a snowstorm, dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost. More dogs are lost during the winter than during any other season, so make sure yours always wears ID tags and a brightly colored coat or collar reflector.