The cold, wintery months are upon us which means it’s time to refresh ourselves on how to care of your furry friends this season.

Below are a few things you can do during the brutally cold months to protect your pets:

Limit outdoor exposure.
Have suitable places for them outdoors such as a draft-free doghouse if they spend most of their time outside.
Regularly wipe and clean your pet’s paws with a damp towel to prevent harm from foreign chemicals such as ice melting salt.
Make sure your pets remain properly nourished in cold weather. Also, avoid using metal bowls for their food and water since this could freeze them.
Keep them on a leash near bodies of water so they don’t mistakenly run into a frozen lake or pond. If your pet or someone else’s pet does fall into the water, call 911 immediately and don’t go into the water to save them.
Look before you lock! Summertime isn’t the only time of the year to avoid leaving your pets alone in a vehicle. NEVER lock them in the car during cold weather as it could result in injuries or even death.
Keep harmful chemicals such as antifreeze away from your furry friends. Chemicals such as these attract animals due to their misleading taste, which could result in antifreeze poisoning.
Double-check for wildlife taking refuge near your vehicle. Squirrels, stray cats and dogs may hide underneath your vehicle to shelter from the cold. Making a loud noise such as honking your horn or banging on your hood will likely make them scurry away before you drive away.

Unlike their human caregivers, pets rely on their owners to take the necessary steps to keep them safe during harsh weather conditions. Make sure to go the extra mile this winter to keep them warm and secure!

Source(s): Mass.gov

(Image provided by Pixabay.com)

Winter Pet Safety Tips!