If it's Too Cold for You, it's Too Cold for Your Pet!

NEWMARKET, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Jan. 17, 2011) - The Ontario SPCA wants to remind pet owners that the cold weather can be harmful to your pets. 

Protect outdoor dogs

While many pets that enjoy the outdoors can withstand exceptional temperatures even the furriest pets will feel the bite of winter chill. Outdoor dogs must be provided adequate shelter and a constant supply of fresh water. While the Ontario SPCA strongly recommends bringing your dog indoors, dogs that live outside require as a minimum a dry, draft-free doghouse soundly built of weatherproof materials with the door facing away from prevailing winds. It should be elevated and insulated, with a door flap and bedding of straw or wood shavings.

Check your pet's water and food frequently to ensure it's not frozen and use a tip-resistant plastic or ceramic bowl, rather than metal, to prevent your dog's tongue sticking to the cold metal surface. There are also heated and/or insulated bowls available that prevent water from freezing.

Use a damp towel to wipe your pet's paws and underside after being outside. Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice on roads and sidewalks can irritate and burn your pet's sensitive paws - and can cause injury if ingested. Also, remove ice balls by placing your pet's feet in warm (not hot) water before drying them off with a towel. Consider using "booties" to protect your pet's paws.

If your dog is chained outside, ensure the chain moves freely and is not frozen into the ground or ice.

Avoid car hazards

Never leave your cat or dog alone in a car during cold weather. Cars hold in the cold, acting like refrigerators, which could cause your dog to freeze to death.

Also, be aware of cats seeking warmth under vehicle hoods. When the vehicle motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. Make a point of knocking on the hood or sounding the horn before starting the engine. This will warn away any cats who may be hiding in your vehicle.

Another danger for pets this time of year is ethylene glycol, which is found in antifreeze and brake fluids and is deadly to all animals. It tastes sweet, so animals may ingest it; a very small amount can be fatal. Emergency veterinary care is essential. Always clean up any spills carefully and dispose of the rags as hazardous waste. Be alert for antifreeze spills when out on walks.

Take pet precautions 

Don't let your dog off leash on ice or snow, especially during a snowstorm, as dogs can lose their scent and easily become lost.

Ensure your pet always has a warm place to sleep away from drafts and off the floor. A thick cozy dog or cat bed with a blanket or pillow is great.

"If your dog spends lots of time outside during the other seasons, be sure to give them lots of mental activity if the weather prevents typical exercise." Says Connie Mallory, Chief Inspector Ontario SPCA 'Special chew toys, games of fetch, or "brain games" for your pet will keep them mentally busy."

Additional Information

COLD WEATHER DANGERS

http://www.ontariospca.ca/4-carefactsheets-safety-1.shtml

OSPCA BLOG "Brrr… Winter is coming"

http://www.ospcablog.ca/?p=493

The Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Ontario SPCA): Protecting animals since 1873, the Ontario SPCA is a registered charity comprised of over 50 Communities relying primarily on donations to fund animal protection, care and rehabilitation; advocacy; and humane education. The Ontario SPCA Act mandates the Society to enforce animal cruelty laws and provides Society investigators with police powers to do so – making the Ontario SPCA unique among animal welfare organizations in the province. The Ontario SPCA is affiliated with the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.

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