Winter Pet Safety Tips from a Fishers Vet
During the winter months, extra care must be taken to protect your four-legged family members. Just like you take steps to safeguard them against the sun’s hot rays in the summer, you need to protect your pet from winter’s chill. Here are a few tips from a Fishers vet on how to keep your pet safe during the winter months.
Plan Ahead
Keep an eye on the weather reports, and make sure you are prepared for serious storms. When bad weather is predicted, make sure you have your pet’s food, medications, and other necessary supplies on hand in case you are stranded at home for a few days. Check the temperature before taking your pet outside, too, and keep outings short when it’s below freezing. Remember, if it’s too cold for you to comfortably spend an extended period of time outdoors, it’s likely too cold for your pet, too!
Know Your Pet’s Limitations
If you have an adult Husky, they will most likely love spending time outside on even the coldest winter days. If you have a Chihuahua, on the other hand, they might have a hard time staying warm even indoors on cold winter days. Be mindful of how susceptible your pet is to the cold and, if necessary, put a sweater on them to help them beat the chill. Aside from walks and potty breaks, all pets should be kept indoors - especially during inclement weather and extreme cold.
Keep Your Dog on a Leash
Even if your dog normally goes outside without a leash, it’s best to keep them leashed during the winter months. Snowfall can make it difficult for dogs to find their way back home if they wander too far during the winter months. In addition, frozen ponds, lakes, and even in-ground swimming pools can be deadly.
Check In with Their Fishers Vet
If it’s been a while since your pet’s last check-up, now is a good time to schedule an appointment with their Fishers vet. It’s also smart to have your pet microchipped just in case they get separated from you.
At VetCheck Pet Urgent Care Center, we provide wellness exams, microchipping, and a wide range of other services to keep your pet safe and healthy. Stop by or contact us today to schedule an appointment.