Make sure pets receive care during cold weather
by Elsie Hodnett
Nov 29, 2011 | 714 views | 0 0 comments | 7 7 recommendations | email to a friend | print
With cold temperatures and winter weather on the way, it is important to ensure outside pets receive proper care.
“If it’s cold out there for you, it’s cold out there for your pet,” Pell City Police Department animal control officer Rose Ogden said.
Ogden said protection for your pet is essential, especially in cold weather, inclement weather such as rain and snow, and also from the wind.
“You want to make sure your pet is sheltered from the wind and elements,” she said. “Some breeds of dog with thicker coats are better able to handle colder temperatures, but they still need protection from the wind.”
Ogden said short-haired dog breeds, such as pit bulls and Boxers, small dogs such as Chihuahuas, young puppies and older animals all need more protection.
“Dog crates, airline carriers and pet taxis are not proper dog houses,” she said. “They are not constructed to keep an animal warm, they are constructed to keep the animal confined.”
Ogden said roof covering only is not sufficient. A proper dog house needs three sides as well as a roof and adequate protection from the elements.
“I recommend the dog shelter have an awning or covering at the entrance to block the wind and rain,” she said. “The dog house should be large enough for the dog to stand up, turn around and lie down comfortably, but small enough for the dog’s body heat to warm it sufficiently.”
Ogden said sheds are not sufficient protection because they are too large for the dog’s body heat to warm the enclosure.
“Dog bedding such as blankets or straw must be checked and changed frequently,” she said. “Wet blankets or wet straw do not provide any benefits.”
Ogden said some pet owners provide a heat source in the dog house, such as a heat lamp.
“If you have a heat source in the dog house, make sure it is not too warm for your pet,” she said. “I have seen people overheat a dog house and their dog wouldn’t go in it because it was too hot.”
Ogden said outdoor cats will find protection from the elements, however, it can cause problems if they go into a vehicle’s engine compartment for warmth.
“I suggest tapping the hood a couple times to alert the animal,” she said.
Ogden said fresh water is important for all animals.
“Check the water bowls frequently to ensure they don’t ice over, or provide insulated bowls,” she said.
Ogden said regularly grooming your pet can also help keep the animal’s coat smooth and provide better overall protection.
She said for further pet care tips, visit www.aspca.org.
Contact Elsie Hodnett at ehodnett@dailyhome.com.
Read more: The Daily Home – Make sure pets receive care during cold weather
