Too Cold Outside To Walk Your Pet? Try This

Winter is undoubtedly a magical time of year with snow cascading down and everything becoming a winter wonderland. However, the weather conditions can be tricky to navigate if you have a pet. Here are tips about what to do with your pup or cat during the winter.

Icy roads, snowy conditions, and freezing temperatures are just some of the challenges that come with the wintertime. The best thing to do is to prepare, especially when you have an animal to also care for. In the case of bad weather, it is best to plan ahead and have everything you may need to care for your furry companion in the house. The American Humane Society suggests you should “leave your pets’ coats a little longer in the winter to provide more warmth. That summer ‘short cut’ from your groomer should be avoided during cold weather.” What about the dogs that don’t have huge fur coats? “If you have short-haired breeds, consider getting them a coat or sweater that covers them from neck to tail and around the abdomen.” Everyone needs to bundle up in the colder months.

Not only is it important to prepare in advance if something like a snowstorm is predicted, but it is also equally important to prepare for everyday activities. For instance, if you are taking your dog out for a walk, it is essential to make sure they are completely dry after a bath before they go outside. It is also recommended to always keep them on a leash because dogs can get lost in bad weather. Generally, it is best to keep pets indoors as much as possible. If you have a cat, you should definitely keep them indoors because, according to the American Humane Society, “cats can freeze in cold weather without shelter.” Also, “sometimes cats left outdoors in cold weather seek shelter and heat under the hoods of automobiles and are injured or killed when the ignition is turned on.” One last thing to keep in mind is that if it is too cold for you, it is probably too cold for your pet.

Taking care of your pet is a big responsibility, and these tips will help you to prepare for the dark winter season with your furry companion.