Protect your animals from the harsh winter
Every winter there are stories about animals that were left out in the cold who froze to death. Just this week, stayrescue.org published a story about a mother dog and her puppies who froze to death inside a dog house that was unprotected. With Texas weather changing from day to day let's do what we can to keep our animals safe
Here are some tips to keep your pets safe during cold weather according to the American Veterinary Medical Association:
Winter Wellness: Cold weather is known to worsen conditions like arthritis. Have your animals looked over by a veterinarian at least once a year to make sure that they are healthy and ready for the weather?
Stay inside: Animals should be kept inside during cold weather. Many believe that a dog's or cat's hair keeps them from being cold but this is untrue. Cats and dogs get frostbite and hypothermia just like humans. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant but should not be left out for long periods.
Recognize problems: Hypothermia shows when a pet is whining, shivering, seems anxious, slows down or stops moving, seems weak, or starts looking for warm places to burrow. If your pet shows any of these symptoms get them inside immediately. Frostbite is harder to detect, and may not be fully recognized until a few days after. Call a veterinarian immediately if you suspect this is happening to your animal.
Know the limits: Pets can be a lot like humans in the fact that each one can have different body temperatures. Know your pet's tolerance for cold weather. Arthritic and elderly pets may have more problems walking on snow and ice and are more prone to slipping and falling. Long-haired or thick-coated dogs tend to be more cold-tolerant, but are still at risk when in cold weather too long. Short-haired become cold faster because their bellies and bodies are more likely to touch the snow-covered ground. Pets with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances (such as Cushing's disease) may have a harder time regulating their body temperature.
Feed well: Keep your animals well-fed and healthy during the winter. Outdoor pets require more calories in the winter to generate enough body heat and energy to keep them warm. See your veterinarian about your pet's nutritional needs during the winter.
Make some noise: Vehicles are great places for cats to hide during winter. They are looking for something warm and a car engine is prime real estate. Knock on your vehicle to scare off any animals that might be underneath before traveling.
Provide shelter: If you are unable to keep your animal inside provide him/her with a warm, solid shelter against wind. They need to have access to fresh, non-frozen water. The floor of the shelter should be off of the ground (to minimize heat loss into the ground) and all bedding should be dry and changed regularly. Space heaters and heat lamps should be avoided due to the risk of burns or fire. Heated pet mats should also be used with caution due to possibly causing burns.
Stay home: Cars become ridiculously cold when setting in the winter. Just like you wouldn’t leave an animal in the car in the summer, don’t do it in the winter.
Check the paws: Check your animal's paws for injuries or blisters after walks. Also, have your dog wear a sweater or an old blanket when outside.
Cold weather safety for livestock
Companion animals are not the only animals that suffer during cold weather. Livestock and cattle have their own needs in the winter.
Consider the amount and quality of feed: Feeding your livestock quality food is one of the most important things you can do. The calories give their body the heat that will keep them alive. Ensure that whatever you are feeding any animal has the right nutritional value.
Ensure access to water: Your herd must have access to fresh and unfrozen water. Tank heaters or heated buckets are best at regulating the temperature that livestock need. Livestock will not consume water that is frozen.
Provide appropriate shelter from the elements: Livestock usually can stand the cold temperatures but wind, rain, or snow require a greater number of calories. Be sure that the animals are out of the elements especially the wind. Blankets will help protect horses, but shelter with proper ventilation and dry bedding is what is needed. Always check the animals for signs of injury, infection, or malnutrition.
Recognize the importance of early veterinary care: Schedule veterinary appointments early that way if your animal needs any special needs they can be met before the harsh weather.
