Winter Tips For Pets

January 7, 2010 - As temperatures continue to drop and the probability of snow and sleet increases, the Spartanburg Humane Society (SHS) reminds pet owners to take extra precautions for their pets this winter. Follow these tips to ensure the animals in your life are safe, warm, and comfortable despite the frightful weather outside.

1. If at all possible, companion animals should be kept inside, especially in the winter. If you must keep your pet outdoors, SC state law requires animals to have proper shelter.
2. During the winter, outdoor pets need a sheltered environment that is well bedded with hay, shavings, straw, or other insulated material to help pets stay warm.
3. Be sure to provide your pet with plenty of fresh water. If your pet is outside, be sure to check his water bowl frequently to ensure it has not frozen.
4. During cold winter weather, outdoor cats sometimes sleep in the engines or wheel wells of cars. To avoid unintentionally injuring or killing a cat, be sure to bang loudly on the hood of your car before starting it.
5. Do not leave your pet unattended in a vehicle for extended periods of time. Cars can turn into refrigerators in cold temperatures. Leaving animals in cold cars is unhealthy and can lead to severe injuries.
6. Cats of all ages, puppies, elderly dogs, and dogs with short coats should always be kept inside. These animals are particularly susceptible to cold weather.
7. Extremely shorthaired dogs; like chihuahuas, greyhounds, and Boston terriers; should not go outside for extended periods of time without a sweater during very cold weather.
8. Dogs and cats who spend a large amount of time outside during the winter months burn more calories and need more food to sustain themselves. Indoor dogs who are less active during the winter months, may burn less calories and therefore need less food. When determining the amount and type of food to feed your pet, it is always best to consult your veterinarian.
9. Products that melt ice and snow can be very toxic to animals. If your pet walks through these chemicals, prevent him from ingesting them by thoroughly wiping his paws off after coming back inside.

By following these simple precautions, ALL members of your family, both two legged and four legged, can enjoy a safe and healthy New Year!

The Spartanburg Humane Society is a 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide quality care to lost and unwanted pets while raising community awareness about issues affecting companion animals. In addition to providing shelter and care to thousands of animals in need each year, the SHS offers programs and services aimed at creating a safer and healthier community for pets and people. These programs include low cost veterinary services, dynamic humane education programs, and dog training and pet behavior consultation.