How to Avoid Worst-Case Winter Scenarios with Your Pet

Winter is here. There’s no denying it now. The off-season warmth has been replaced with temperatures dipping near the single digits. Even if our yards aren’t covered in blanket of white, your pet could be in real danger. At Deceased Pet Care we want our pets to be happy, safe, and comfortable -- we know you do too. Here are some common slips that could put your pet in real danger this Winter Season. With a little knowledge and a little action, you and your pets are guaranteed to conquer the winter wonderland.

Build A Shelter
If you can’t bring your pet inside (either for allergies or preference) make sure you build them a proper shelter. Check the web for a myriad of options. Just make sure the shelter blocks the wind, covers the snowfall, and has a raised up bed of warmth for your pet to snuggle on. The ground holds the cold and can actually cause hypothermia in your pet. Also, make sure whatever ground cover you have remains dry: a wet bed can be worse than no bed at all.

Mr. Freeze
Antifreeze, even in small doses are potentially fatal to your favorite pooch or feline friend. Keep a close eye on the leakage from your vehicles, and watch the ground when you’re on a walk. Antifreeze tastes sweet to animals so they’re easily attracted. Warning signs that your pet has ingested some of the deadly nectar are: drunken behavior, shaking, vomiting diarrhea, excessive urination, fainting, or coma. If your pet is showing any of these signs, call your veterinarian immediately.

Monitor Your Outdoor Adventures
It’s important that your pet gets some exercise during the cold winter months. But going out in the cold can cause many different problems. Protect their paws with a little petroleum jelly, invest in a pet sweater, towel dry their belly and paws once inside, and remember; if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for your pet.

Wake ‘Em Up
In cold weather, pets (especially cats) go where it’s naturally warmer. This place of comfort can often be a freshly run engine compartment. Make sure you make some noise (we recommend just banging on the hood) before you crank up your vehicle. Your cat can get caught in the moving parts and severely injured by things like timing belts. Just make sure to give your pet a few minutes to wake up and get down before you get on your way.

Packing It On
While is completely natural to gain a little weight during the colder months, make sure your pet isn’t pairing weight gain with lethargy. It’s harder to exercise and run around in the cold so play tug-of-war inside with your pooch, or have your cat chase a laser around the living room. It’s doesn’t have to be kitty crossfit, just a light romp to get your beloved pet’s heart pumping.

Winter is beautiful and stark, but it can be dangerous. With some extra intentionality you can ensure your winter is as safe and enjoyable and a warm summer stroll in the park. At Deceased Pet Care, we believe in enjoying life with your pet to the full no matter the season. Do you have any cautionary tips for successfully surviving winter, or maybe a fun idea to pass the time? Let us know in the comments below. Like, Comment, Share, and Subscribe for more helpful pet tips and tricks in the coming months.