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Brrrr! Minnesota can get very cold. The record for the coldest temperature in the state is sixty degrees below zero. While most pet owners are aware of how to protect their pets from warm weather dangers like hot cars and heatstroke, cold weather pet dangers aren\u2019t as well known. Here are a few questions pet owners should ask themselves as the temperature drops and winter marches on.<\/p>\n
Pets\u2019 cold tolerance varies based on their coat, body fat, age, activity level, and overall health. Breed also plays a role. Other signs that your pet is at higher risk of danger in cold temperatures include:<\/p>\n
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Senior dogs often have arthritis which is more noticeable during cold weather. Joints become stiffer and mobility is limited. Arthritic pets may have difficulty walking on snow and ice which may make them more prone to slipping or getting injured. It\u2019s a good idea to shorten walks in cold, snowy, or icy weather. Consult with your veterinarian about medications and other treatments that are available to keep your pet comfortable and ease arthritis pains during cold winter days. You can find more tips on how to help your arthritic pet this winter here<\/a>.<\/p>\n During the winter, check your dog\u2019s paws frequently for signs of cold-weather injury such as dry, cracked paw pads. When outside, a sudden limp may be due to ice accumulation between the toes. Sweat glands in a dog\u2019s paw release moisture which can freeze in cold weather. This causes ice balls to form. To protect your dog\u2019s paws,<\/a> invest in booties, clip the hair between your dog\u2019s toes, and use paw balms.<\/p>\n De-icing salt, even pet-safe salt, can irritate the skin of your pet\u2019s feet. After walking on any salted roadways or sidewalks, rinse and dry your pet\u2019s paws when you get home. Don\u2019t forget the legs and belly, too! Short-legged pets may pick up de-icers, antifreeze, or other chemicals during walks, not to mention dirt and grime from slushy, dirty snow. A good wipe-down will help remove dirt and chemicals from your pet\u2019s feet and fur.<\/p>\n Just like you wouldn\u2019t leave your pet in a hot car, you should never leave your pet in a car in cold temperatures. Dogs can develop hypothermia if left for too long. Many states have laws against leaving pets in a car, whether it\u2019s summer or winter. You also shouldn\u2019t leave your pets outside when it\u2019s cold out. Dr. Ernie Ward, a public figure in the veterinary field, made this video<\/a> to demonstrate how dangerous the cold can be for pets left in doghouses outside all night.<\/p>\n The Twin Cities have already had several winter storms that have impeded travel and caused cancellations and closures. We advise having a snow day emergency kit in your home, as well as each of your cars, for both you and your pets. Here\u2019s a list of the top ten items to have in your pet first aid kit<\/a>, as well as more tips here<\/a>. You should also keep an adequate supply of your pet\u2019s food and prescription medications on hand so you don\u2019t have to run out in a blizzard to get to the store for food or the clinic for refills.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n As far as our feline friends are concerned, outdoor and feral cats are with us year-round. A warm vehicle engine can be an appealing heat source. This can be deadly if the car is turned on. If your car is not parked in a garage, develop the habit of banging on the hood of your car or honking the horn before starting the engine.<\/p>\n Contact your family veterinarian with questions about your specific pet and things you can do to keep your pet healthy, active, happy and comfortable during the winter months. Stay prepared, and don\u2019t forget \u2013 spring is not that far away!<\/p>\n <\/p>\n For more cold weather pet safety tips, check out these articles:<\/em><\/p>\n![\"Minnesota](\"https:\/\/www.aercmn.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/01\/2-2.png\")
<\/p>\n3. Are your dog\u2019s paws protected?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n4. Does your pet walk in areas with de-icing salt?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n5. Is it safe for my pet to be outside in the car or in a doghouse?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n6. Do you have a pet first aid kit?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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<\/p>\n7. What about cats?<\/strong><\/h3>\n
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