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The chills of winter can become unforgiving for both you and your pet. The American Veterinary Medical Association says that colder weather can take a toll on your pets’ safety, health, and well-being. As winter gatherings set in, remember to pay extra attention to your pets. If you want to find out effective winter holiday pet safety tips, here’s what you should know.

Keep Chemicals Away

Various chemicals, such as those that melt ice, can burn or irritate your pet’s paws. After your daily walk, make sure you wash and wipe off your pet’s paws to strip off these corrosive substances. Also, store your household cleaning chemicals in high cabinets that have secure doors.

Provide Shelter, Clean Food, and Fresh Water

If you have pets that spend a lot of time outdoors during winter days, make sure they have shelter, food, and water. Line their pet house with a heating pad, some insulation, and blankets to keep them warm.

Inspect Your Vehicle

Sometimes, your cat may venture into your garage to seek warmth. Your vehicle is always warm, especially if you use it daily. Before you start your engine, make sure you bang on your hood. This will startle your pet or any animal that could be enjoying the comfortable heat of your engine.

Keep Them Inside

Experts say that all pets should remain inside during winter. If you have short-haired, young, or senior pets, always supervise them when they play outside. Limit their outdoor play to prevent them from getting too cold.

Trim Your Pet’s Foot Pad Hair

This will prevent ice balls from forming underneath your pet’s feet. Ice balls can be challenging to remove and also, painful for your pet.

Keep in Touch With Your Vet

You should keep the number of the 24-hour emergency animal hospital handy. Make sure you provide immediate veterinary medical attention to your pet if you notice signs of hypothermia or frostbite.

Store Your Antifreeze

Antifreeze is highly toxic. Keep it away from your pet’s reach. In case you spill it, clean it up immediately.

Clip Your Pet’s Nails Regularly

Your pets should have a firm footing when they walk on icy pathways. Clipping their nails also makes your household scratch-free during winter.

Keep Holiday Plants Away From Your Pet

Winter is the season for growing hibiscus, mistletoe, roses, poinsettia, or holly. Be sure to keep your pets away from these plants
because they are toxic. You can place these flowers inside a small greenhouse or establish some wired fencing around them.

Make Them Wear Protective Clothing and Accessories

Your pets’ paws should have ample protection from icy conditions. Extremely cold and wet trails can hide dangerous surprises. They can step on something sharp or poisonous. Put a coat and protective snow booties on your pets before your walk.

The mentioned winter pet safety tips can help you maintain your pet’s well-being during the colder months. At Bergen County Veterinary Center, we remind our pet parents to keep their pets comfortable and secure during every seasonal change. Please visit our clinic in Waldwick, New Jersey, and you can call us at (201) 205-2500 if you want to schedule an appointment or ask questions.

References:

https://www.petsit.com/winter-pet-safety-tips

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/holiday-pet-safety