Winter Is Finally Here

Baby, It's Cold Outside.  All kidding aside, really cold.  It seems that it had been unseasonably warm up until this past weekend and then all of a sudden, we stopped seeing fleas and ticks and started worrying about hypothermia in our pets and their owners.  Here are just a couple of things to keep in mind while we finish laying on that insulating layer of blubber from all of the goodies that were sent to the office this season.  (Sincerest thanks to all of you but I am starting to feel the consequences)

First, do not leave pets outside for long periods of time.  Sudden temperature drops make it difficult for animals to acclimate to the cold.  This is important to take into consideration if you are planning to travel with your pet.  Airlines may restrict pet travel in extreme temperatures.

Make sure out door cats have access to shelter.  Water will freeze so it is important to make sure that there is fresh, liquid water available.  Dogs that spend a large amount of time outdoors also need a snug warm shelter to keep them out of the weather.

We always worry about leaving dogs in the hot cars in the summer.  Well, now we have the opposite problem.  Bella is good down to about 30 degrees for about half an hour in the car if she is wearing her coat.  This week, I haven't left her in the car for more than a few minutes and I make sure that it is warmed up.  Her regular walks are not a problem during the day, but she wears her coat for the longer evening walks.  Also, make sure to check your dog's paws for ice and snow, especially between the pads.  Clean them when you come in to remove salt that might irritate their feet.  In the city this past weekend, I noticed that a lot of dogs in Central Park were wearing booties.  I think most owners do this to keep their apartments  free from the dirt and grime, but the dogs are protected as well.

Don't forget about our feline friends.  Cats that are coming into the veterinarian or traveling for the holidays can be subject to the cold.  Some are more sensitive than others.

On really frigid days, warm the car up before going out, put a blanket in the carrier, and of course, a sweater is appropriate for some.  With appropriate preparation, we can all enjoy the cold weather.  In fact, if you have pictures of your pet playing outdoors this winter, please, message them to me at our Facebook page.  We'll try to put a collection together so we can look back at this month fondly when the weather is warmer.  Until then, here's looking forward to warm weather and romps in the yard.

Stay warm, and everyone have a Happy and Healthy New Year.