Keep your four-legged friend safe with these cold weather pet safety tips.
With teeth-chattering temperatures blanketing most of the country, it’s more important than ever to take steps to keep your fur family toasty and warm during frosty weather. Here are cold weather pet safety tips to ensure your pets remain safe and cozy!
1. Limit outdoor time
Though your pet may love to frolic in the winter weather, too much time in freezing temperatures can pose serious health threats. If you take your pet outdoors either to go to the bathroom or get some exercise, remain with them and try to minimize their time outside. Protecting your dog or cat from exposure to dangerous winter temperatures is a crucial part of cold weather pet safety.
2. Check paws
Cold weather can cause paw pads to crack and bleed. Take time each day to check your pet’s paws for signs of winter-related issues. In addition to cracking, frigid temperatures can cause ice to build up between their toes, causing discomfort and pain. Be sure your four-legged friend’s paws are in good shape before going for a quick walk or play session outdoors!
3. Invest in cold weather gear
Though they may look silly, jackets, wraps, and other cold weather garments are ideal for keeping pets warm, particularly those with short hair. These clothing items also play an important role in cold weather pet safety by keeping your four-legged friend dry, which can help to minimize wet fur and the chances of developing life-threatening issues like hypothermia.
4. Keep your pet clean
It’s common for neighborhoods to use ice-melting substances like salt and antifreeze-like liquids. These irritation-causing substances can cause pain and discomfort if left on your pet’s paws or in their fur. Be sure to wipe down your pet after walks, paying particular attention to their feet and bellies where salt and other de-icing substances can collect.
5. Plan ahead
If you’re going to be away from home during colder weather, have a plan for keeping your four-legged friend safe and warm. From creating a dedicated “nest” area away from dangerous parts of your home to having a friend of family member pet-sit, there are a variety of ways to ensure your pet can stay inside and away from harmful temperatures – even if you plan to be gone for several days!
Cold weather pet safety is easy when you have a plan! With Companion Protect® coverage, you can rest assured you’ll have the year-round support your pet deserves when the unexpected happens. Learn more about our coverage today!
WILSON WEAVER
Copywriter
Wilson has written for brands in the tech, e-commerce, construction, health, and finance industries. In his free time, he enjoys cooking for friends and family, spoiling his dog-daughter (Penny), painting, and playing music with friends. And speaking of food, his favorite meal is his mom’s pot roast and mashed potatoes!