We’re all responsible for making certain that the animals in our care have the
resources they need to take them safely and comfortably through the winter.

Many animals are no longer suited “by nature” to live outdoors. Our pets are domesticated — short-haired animals may grow a winter coat, but it’s not adequate for continuous outdoor living. Therefore dogs and cats face the same dangers from cold weather as do people.

As a general guideline, please remember that if the air temperature is below freezing, pets should be brought indoors. The following are all important points to remember for pets this winter. Please take a moment to read them, and pass this information along to others, both children and adults.

SHELTER: When it’s cold outside, animals should be kept inside—or at the very least be given access to a warm garage or shed with warm, dry bedding out of the wind and moisture. Straw makes good bedding as it helps hold in body heat. It’s also good for your pet to burrow in and stay warmer. But, straw needs to be changed often as the dust from it can cause respiratory problems for pets.

Shelter for all pets should be up off the ground to keep moisture away. Nothing is more uncomfortable or detrimental than being cold and wet. Shelters should provide enough room for your dog to move around but close enough to keep body heat in. Keep the sleeping area concealed from wind (don’t ever face the opening to the north) and direct exposure to the outside. Hang rugs or blankets over the entryway to cut the bitter breezes.

FOOD: If you feed your pet outside, remember that moist food not eaten right away will freeze. Keep plenty of dry food available, or feed smaller meals more often to help your pet maintain body heat. Shivering uses a great many calories.

WATER: Water is very important. Never rely on snow or ice for your animal’s drinking needs, they are not adequate. And ingesting something that cold will only reduce his/her body temperature. Provide water fresh as you would during the summer, but use a heated bowl or an electric heater inside the bowl to prevent freezing.

INJURY: Don’t forget about the animals’ feet. Dogs and cats should be wiped clean of salt and other de-icers; it’s best to buy de-icers labeled safe for pets. Your animals’ feet should also be checked for cuts and for packed snow between the toes.

BE VIGILANT: If your neighborhood has outdoor cats, please give your car hood a courtesy thump before getting in and starting the engine. A warm engine block is a great place for a cat to curl up on a cold night. But starting that engine can quickly cause death or severe injury.

If you see a neighborhood pet or a farm animal struggling this winter, please email or call the shelter.  We’ll forward your infomation to the appropriate authority to assess the situation and take proper steps to help.

Basic winter care for our pets takes a little extra thought and effort, but it’s worth it to know that as we snuggle in for our long winter’s naps, our pets are able to do the same.