Cold Weather Pet Care

The cold temperatures could be dangerous or even fatal to pets who are left outside. The Humane Society for Seattle/King County urges pet owners to take care of their four-legged companions by bringing them inside until the cold snap is over.

Despite their “fur coats,” animals left out side can suffer from frostbite, get lost in their search for a warm shelter, or even freeze to death. Cat and kittens are perfectly happy indoors as long as they have access to a litterbox, food, and fresh water. Because they are pack animals, dogs prefer to be indoors with their family in any weather, but the cold weather is particularly hard and even hazardous to them. In most cases, the family dog has not been bred or conditioned to live in cold temperatures. For people who absolutely cannot bring their dogs inside, the Humane Society for Seattle/King County urges them to provide their dogs with an elevated doghouse that is wind-, snow-, and rain-proof.

What to do
During cold weather, only short walks are recommended for dogs.  Small or shorthaired dogs may need special dog sweaters to keep them warm. Don't let your dog run off leash in icy conditions, as cars may have trouble braking or swerving around loose dogs. Once inside, wipe off any accumulated snow or ice from the animal's legs and paws. If you find an animal that may be suffering from frostbite, wrap him in a blanket or coat, take him inside and call an animal emergency clinic for further assistance. Also, before starting your car, pound on the hood. Cats or kittens often nap on car engines to stay warm and the loud noise can prevent them from injury

Beware of chemicals!
Rock salt, snow melt, antifreeze, and other cold-weather chemicals are extremely harmful to pets. Unfortunately, pets are attracted to the smell and taste of antifreeze and will lick it off the ground and off their paws. An animal will die if he is not treated for antifreeze poisoning within a few hours.