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Protective measures for pets in winter months
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November 30 2009
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Advice from Dr. Chris Chart DVM.
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| (from the Nelson Star Article "Ask the Professionals" |
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| Are there any measures I need to take at this time of year to protect my pets in winter? |
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| Yes, there are several concerns for your pets' health as we get into winter weather. The first is lower temperatures, of course. This is mainly a concern for small or older dogs and cats. If these pets are spending alot of time outside, they may need to be fed more (by up to 25%) as they will need more calories to maintain body temperature. Small dogs may need a coat of some sort, especially if they are short-haired. Some bigger dogs prefer to spend most of their time outside, even in winter, and they should have a shelter available to them - even though they may decide to lie in the snow outside it. Shelters or kennels should be insulated and ideally have some sort of heat source such as a lamp, especially if the dog is older or arthritic. We don't recommend using hay or straw as bedding as they can cause skin irritation in some dogs. Arthritic joints tend become stiffer in cold weather, and supplements like Glucosamine Hydrochloride and Condroitin that lubricate joints are even more important. For cats as well as dogs consider a diet that contains these supplements if your pets are not already on one. And if they're still stiff in spite of these supplements consider seeing their vet about anti-inflammatory medication. |
| Ice and crushed snow can be hard on sensitive paws, not to mention road salt, so wipe your pets' paws well after walking on the road with them and consider buying them a set of booties to avoid their paws becoming irritated. |
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