The winter months pose special hazards for our pets, some of which aren’t immediately obvious. Road salt can make them sick, antifreeze can kill, and the pads of their feet can even become frostbitten. Here are some ways to keep your pet safe and healthy when the snow starts to fly.



Put chemicals away
Cats and dogs will both drink antifreeze (ethylene glycol) because it tastes sweet. If you spill any, clean it up immediately. Even one drink from a tiny puddle, no more than a teaspoon, and the pet can die, according to R. J. Krapfl, DVM, an Omaha veterinarian and spokesperson for the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). There are less toxic options to consider as well, such as antifreeze based on propylene glycol.

Honk your horn
“When it’s cold, cats love to sit under the engine or even under the hood,” explains Sheldon Rubin, DVM, a Chicago veterinarian and AVMAspokesperson. Before you start the car, look under it, tap the hood, or simply honk the horn to wake any sleeping cats so they can get clear of moving engine parts, which can be deadly.

Mind the tails and ears
Pets can develop frostbite even though they wear fur. “The skin becomes bright red, then pale, then black, after which it can fall off,” says Rubin. Ears, footpads, and the tip of the tail are vulnerable areas. If you think your pet has frostbite, wet a towel with warm, not hot, water and apply to the questionable area, then wrap your pet in blankets and see a vet as soon as possible. Your vet will be able to tell how much damage there is, and treat it appropriately.

Check belly and feet
When your pet comes in from outdoors, wipe the belly and paws with warm water, in case he’s picked up road salt, antifreeze or other chemicals. This prevents your pet from ingesting these substances while licking his fur. Check to make sure the paws haven’t been cut on sharp ice, and remove any ice balls from between footpads. Use sand, cat litter, or an animal safe de-icer instead of salt on your own property to minimize your pet’s exposure. For an older dog, or one with heart or lung problems, the cold air can actually cause problems. Arthritic dogs will be more stiff with painful joints. So save the long walks for warmer weather.

Give them shelter
For a dog that will be outdoors in the cold weather, make sure you supply enough water. A heated bowl or bucket is best. And be sure your dog’s shelter is off the ground so air can circulate beneath and the dog can avoid dampness. “The opening needs to be away from the prevailing winds,” Rubin says. And while most dogs can tolerate the cold, bring your pet inside when the temperature drops below freezing or there’s a harsh wind chill.

Know your pet’s limits
Cats should stay indoors, unless they’re already used to cold temperatures. Dogs with thick fur can generally tolerate cold weather, but single-coated breeds like poodles and terriers might need extra warmth in the form of a jacket or sweater. And use common sense. If you’re cold, chances are your dog’s cold, too. If your dog’s shivering, tugging on the leash, or doing a little dance to keep paws off the cold ground, it’s time to head back inside.

Buzz.Prevention » Winterize Your Pet