Cold Weather Tips for Pets
The winter chill also is tough on pets, so take some steps to ease their seasonal suffering.
The APSCA suggests:
• Trimming long-haired dogs, including hair between toes, to limit clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals. All dry out and can irritate dogs’ skin.
• Massaging petroleum jelly into paw pads before going outside to protect them from salt and chemicals.
• Keeping your dog on a leash during a snowstorm. Even though they enjoy romping in the snow, they can lose their scent and get lost. o Wiping off your dog's legs and stomach after a walk because salt, antifreeze and other chemicals can adhere to their bodies and they can lick those substances and get sick.
• Protecting outdoor cats who sometimes sleep under car hoods. They can get injured when you start the car, so if there are outdoor cats in your neighborhood, bang on your car hood before starting the engine so cats can escape.
