Protect Those Pets

12/16/2021 (Permalink)

December 21 is the first day of Winter. As a property owner, we often prepare our homes and businesses for frigid winter weather but, it is also important to remember to keep your pets safe too. Exposure to winter’s dry, chilly air and icy rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin, but these are not the only discomforts pets can suffer. Winter walks can become dangerous if your pet licks off its bare paws and there are chemicals from ice-melting agents on them. To help prevent wintry weather dangers from affecting your pet’s health, consider the following tips: 

• Repeatedly coming out of the cold into the dry heat of your home can cause itchy, flaking skin. Keep your home humidified and towel dry your pet as soon as he comes inside, paying special attention to their paws. 
• Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter, as a longer coat will provide more warmth. If your dog is long-haired, simply trim them to minimize the clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry their skin. 
• Bring a towel on long walks to clean off stinging, irritated paws. After each walk, wash and dry your pet’s feet and stomach to remove ice, salt, and chemicals—and check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. 
• Bathe your pets as little as possible during cold spells. Washing too often can remove essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. 
• Massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into paw pads before going outside can help protect from salt and chemical agents.  
• Make sure your companion has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all the drafts. A cozy dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect. 

Remember, if it is too cold for you, it is too cold for your pet, so keep your animals inside. Remember these tips from us when taking care of your pet this winter!