HOUSTON – With the mercury dropping the winter chill is expected to bring in cold temperatures ranging from the upper 20s to the lower 30s. It is important to remember that a pets age, breed or illness may affect how he or she tolerates the cold winter months. The Houston SPCA advises that it is best that all pets live indoors due to these unpredictable weather conditions.

Provide proper shelter for pets whether they live indoors or outdoors. Indoor pets should have their beds or crates placed in a safe and warm place that is away from drafts. Outdoor pets should have a well-insulated house that is wind-resistant, waterproof and elevated off the ground so wind and moisture cannot seep inside. Install a door flap to protect against drafts and gusts of wind. Extra blankets and straw will also help to increase a pets warmth. Room and floor heaters should be kept away from pets, as they are an obvious fire hazard and can cause serious injuries as well.

Make sure to provide fresh, clean water for pets every day. Outdoor pets need to consume between 25 to 50 percent more calories than usual because the cold weather tends to deplete their energy. Make sure to talk to a veterinarian to learn what is right for a pet.

A vehicle can act as refrigerator in the winter. Never leave a dog or cat alone in a vehicle during the winter months as they will freeze to death.

Keep cats indoors during the winter. Not only can outdoor cats freeze, but they sometimes sleep under the hoods of vehicles to stay warm. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. Give an outdoor cat a chance to escape by banging loudly on the car hood before starting the vehicle.

Anyone with a short-haired breed of dog should consider getting him or her a sweater with a high collar or turtleneck with coverage from the base of the tail to the belly to keep him or her warm. Never shave a dog down to the skin in the winter months as a longer coat will provide more warmth.

Dogs and cats are attracted to the sweet smell and taste of antifreeze, which contains ethylene glycol. A tiny lick can kill a dog or cat, so make sure to check vehicles for leaks on driveways or gutters. Keep containers tightly closed and clean up spills immediately. Check with local retail stores for pet safe antifreeze.

Rat and mouse poisons are commonly used during the winter months. Place them out of reach, as they can cause fatal bleeding or kidney failure in pets. 

The Houston SPCA encourages everyone to be especially mindful of pets this winter and to keep telephone numbers for the veterinarian and a local emergency veterinary service in a convenient location. 

On the Web:

Houston Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals –  http://hspca.convio.net/site/PageNavigator/homepage_new

Tags: Pets