In some areas of the country during winters, the mercury drops to below freezing point and the chill in the air becomes unbearable. As the winter intensifies its grip over the country, the Humane Society International/India offers some simple tips to keep your four-footed animal safe and warm.
The best prescription for winter’s woes is to keep your dog or cat indoors. Pets are sensitive to severe cold. So, don’t leave your pets outdoors when the temperature drops.
Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small animals, who may crawl up under the hood or snuggle up under your cars. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car’s hood to scare them away before starting your engine.
These days you can find sweaters and jackets for animals in pet shops. Pick up the right size for your pet and keep him warm when you take him out for a walk.
Dogs and cats are blessed with thick fur that keeps them warm naturally. Hence, avoid shaving off their coat during winter. Also, don’t take your dog out for a walk immediately after giving him a bath. Let his coat dry completely before taking him outdoors.
Don’t let your cat or dog sleep on the floor during winter. Beds and mattresses for pets come in various shapes and sizes. Get one and see how your pet loves snuggling up on it. Also, place the bedding in a warm spot (carpeted area) preferably where he sleeps everyday so that the area doesn’t feel unfamiliar to him.
Ensure that you keep pets away from room heaters, lamps or any other heating source. Pets, who get too close to such radiators, may get a burn.
Pets need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet’s water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. When the drinking water in their bowl is ice-cold, pets can’t drink it. It’s advisable to replenish the old water with fresh, room-temperature water every two to three hours.
Dogs, who are prone to arthritis, might have a hard time during the winter months. It is therefore important for you to pay extra attention to their exercise routines. Consult your veterinarian for health supplements and other medication if your pet experiences joint pain.
