Dear Readers:
Each year at this time I like
to review some of the special winter pet care and cautions that
many of you have asked about in the past. It's a good reminder
to all pet owners and might be helpful to those who just got their
pets during the summer. As the weather gets colder, please keep
in mind these important points:
If you have a dog that spends
all or most of his time outdoors, be sure to provide extra bedding
(straw is one of the best insulators) and replenish it often.
Check that his house is well insulated as well and make any necessary
repairs. Outdoor dogs and those that remain physically active
during the winter months will need some extra "fuel"
in the form of increased feed to stay in top shape. On the other
hand, dogs that don't engage in much activity during the winter
should be monitored to be sure that they don't put on excess weight.
Chemicals that are used to
melt snow and ice can be irritating to your pet's feet and may
be harmful if swallowed. When you return from outings in bad
weather allow your dog to warm up a bit and then wash his feet
with warm water.
During the winter it's humane
to tap your car horn a few times before starting the engine.
Cats will often seek warmth by climbing up near the engine area
of autos and every year many are tragically killed or badly injured
when the car starts up.
Antifreeze has a sweet odor
and taste that appeals to animals, especially cats. It can be
fatal if ingested so it is important that owners keep their garage
doors closed and wipe up any anitfreeze from the floor immediately.
