As some of you may remember the infamous winter vortex that we experienced in 2019, it is no surprise that Michigan winter weather can be very unforgiving. With temperatures dropping, it is important to keep in mind the dangers that winter weather can have on our beloved furry companions. While not all pets have the same tolerance to the cold, here are some tips to keep your pets safe and warm this winter:
- Make sure your pets have a warm and cozy place to sleep off of the cold floors, such as a dog or cat bed with blankets or pillows for some extra warmth
- Dry off your pets when they come back inside
- Pay attention to their paws and remove any salts, chemicals, or snowballs to prevent irritation or poisoning
- For pets with shorter fur, consider dressing them in a coat or sweater before going outside
- Apply petroleum jelly to their paws or have them wear shoes before going out on walks
- Don’t leave your pets outside for long periods
- While not recommended, if pets are going to be outside for a more extended time, make sure they have warm and dry shelter with access to food and water that is not frozen
- Clean up any antifreeze spills, as they can be lethal to animals
Along with these tips, a good rule of thumb to keep in mind is this: if you’re cold, then they’re cold. So if the weather is unsafe, stay home and cozy up with your beloved pets. Sadly, thousands of homeless animals have yet to find a warm, loving home. They are the most at risk of being exposed to the danger of extreme weather. That is why Michigan Humane is so thankful to have dedicated supporters who enable us to rescue thousands of homeless animals every year.
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