In many areas during winter, the mercury drops to below freezing and the chill in the air becomes unbearable. As the winter intensifies its grip over India, Humane Society International/India offers some simple tips to keep your four-footed animal safe and warm.
Keep your pets indoors
The best prescription for winter's woes is to keep your dog or cat inside with you and your family. Pets are sensitive to severe cold. So, don't leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops.
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Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood or snuggle up under the cars. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them away before starting your engine.
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These days we can find sweaters and jackets for animals in pet supply shops. Pick up the right size for your pet and keep him warm when you take him for a walk.
Fur is a natural warmer
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 for a walk immediately after giving him a bath. Let his coat dry completely before taking him outdoors.
Cozy bedding
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 every day so that the area doesn't feel unfamiliar.
Keep heaters out of reach
Ensure that you keep them away from room heaters, lamps or any other heating source. Pets who get too close to such radiators may get a burn.
Give your pets plenty of food and water
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, they can’t drink it. It's advisable to replenish the old water with fresh, room-temperature water every 2-3 hours.
Get a health check-up in winter
Dogs which 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 with your veterinarian for health supplements and other medication if your pet experiences joint pain.