Page 42 - Harnett Life Winter 2022
P. 42

6 Tips to


                                                                                      Keep Pets


                                                                                        Safe and



                                                                                     Warm This


                                                                                          Winter


        Photo courtesy of
        Getty Images


      (Family Features) Just as people prepare their homes, cars and   ing, that’s a sign they need extra layers. To help trap body heat
      families for extreme temperatures and weather events of win-  and protect paws from extreme cold, consider using booties
      ter, it’s important to remember pets’ needs this time of year.  when venturing outside.

      As cold weather sets in, Dr. Jennifer Freeman, DVM, resident   Watch out for Hazardous Chemicals
      veterinarian at PetSmart, shares these tips to prepare and en-  Many people  use snow-melting  products  like  deicers,  anti-
      sure your pets are warm and happy throughout winter.       freeze and salt, which can cause skin irritation and be fatal if
                                                                 ingested by your pet. Pet parents should keep an eye on their
      Take Caution When Outdoors                                 pets when they’re outside and be mindful of hazards. After a
      When temperatures reach levels of extreme cold, Freeman rec-  walk, it’s important to thoroughly rinse your pet’s paws and
      ommends  limiting  outdoor  walks  and  monitoring  your  pet’s   stomach, Freeman said, especially after walking in areas where
      behavior for signs of stress or discomfort. Letting your dog   these products are frequently used.
      outside to use the bathroom or go for a quick walk is OK, but
      never leave a pet outside for a long period of time, especially   Keep Skin Protected
      during a winter storm.                                     Just like humans, many pets get dry skin during the winter.
                                                                 When your pet needs a bath, try using a pet-friendly moistur-
      “Don’t let your dog off its leash after snowfall, as snow can   izing shampoo to help keep skin healthy and hydrated. If your
      mask familiar scents,” Freeman said. “This can cause your pet   pet’s skin seems extra dry, supplements like fish oil can be add-
      to become disoriented or lost if they get too far away.”   ed to your pets’ food to help the skin and coat. It’s important
                                                                 to keep an eye on skin health and check with your vet if issues
      Add Extra Layers                                           persist as they could be signs of larger problems.
      Despite efforts to limit time outdoors, your pet needs to go
      outside for bathroom breaks and exercise. Pets who are small,   Have an Emergency Plan
      short-haired, old or have any health issues or illnesses may be   “While creating emergency kits in case of a storm or power
      more sensitive to cold weather.                            outage,  don’t forget about your pet’s needs,” Freeman  said.
                                                                 “A pet’s kit should include supplies needed to keep them fed,
      Pet sweaters can help keep your pet warm. If your pet is shiver-  warm and secure during emergency conditions like blizzards

      Page 42                                                                                  Harnett Life ~ Winter 2022
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