Baby, It Is Cold Outside

Winter is here and that means cold and freezing temperatures, even in the Augusta area.  As pet owners, it is important to make sure that our pets are protected from the elements.  Here are some simple ways to keep pets safe and warm.  

---

First, it is important to help your pets stay warm.  Dogs living outside need a source of shelter and warmth that is easily accessible.  To provide additional warmth, a thick bed of straw or wood shavings placed on the floor of the doghouse helps keep pets off of the ground and provides insulation for them.  A fluffy new bed or blanket would also be a great addition of comfort and warmth.  However, while heating blankets, pads, or lamps provide a continuous source of heat and are marketed for use in doghouses, it is not a good idea to use these because pets may sustain burns, or they may chew on the electrical cord.    

---

Cats living outside also need a warm place to curl up.  Looking for areas with consistent heat sources sheltered from the elements, cats will often crawl into tire wells near or into spaces under the hood to be near the engine.  Because of this, it is important to check under the hood of your car and above the front tires before cranking up to keep cats safe.

---

Next, it is important to help your pets stay hydrated and fed.   Pets need access to water, and it is important to keep a close eye on the water dish to check for freezing. Because outdoor pets use more of their energy to stay warm, adding a little extra food to their bowl will help them stay nourished and provide the energy they need.  

Finally, when temperatures fall below freezing at night and/or daytime temperatures are below average, consider allowing your pet(s) to stay indoors.    

---

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/cold-weather-tips

http://www.communitycatsmd.org/files/cat_shelter_brochure.pdf

http://www.khpet.com/