by Nancy Quinn

Created on: November 14, 2009   Last Updated: November 22, 2009

As we pull out the snow shovels and winter boots from the back of the closets in preparation for winter, it is also time to prepare for your outdoor pets to have safe accommodations throughout the cold months as well. While the preferred winter habitat for pets is indoors for ultimate warmth and comfort, the following tips will keep your outdoor pets as comfortable as possible when the arctic winds begin their journey to your home.

Housing:

Your pet's dog house should be a few inches off the ground and have a door that can keep out the wind and snow. Insulating the dog house and adding extra bedding will give your dog a warmer sleeping environment. Depending on your dog's health, a night in the extremely cold temperatures may be detrimental. So if your veterinarian advises you of this, you can make a cozy sleeping area for your furry family member in the laundry room so he has a warm place to sleep at night.

Your dog needs extra calories in the winter months to keep warm, so be sure to provide plenty of food and water, and check on your pet frequently. The water dish can quickly freeze and your dog will be struggling to have his thirst quenched properly. Your local pet store can direct you to a thermal unit to keep in the water dish so your pet has an unlimited supply of water.

Winter and Holiday Hazards:

Snow and ice removal products make walking safer for us, but they could be dangerous to your pet. Store these products safely away from curious furry explorers. Check your local store for pet friendly options that will work just as well to keep you safe, as well as your pet.

If you enjoy long winter walks with your dog, try to get them to wear doggie boots to protect the pads of their feet. This will protect the delicate pads from the risk of frostbite. Check your pet's paws to ensure snow and ice hasn't stuck to their feet during your walk. By removing the snow and ice from their paws immediately will protect them from frostbite that would require a trip to the veterinarian.

If you do bring your pet in on a cold winter's night, keep in mind that the items that make your house festive this holiday season can also be hazardous to your pets. Poinsettia plants and mistletoe are toxic if eaten. If you have a curious dog that enjoys the challenge of chewing things, items such as ornaments, tinsel, and even snow flock may give you the opportunity to make another visit to the vet. Chocolate should never been eaten by your pets, so make sure the tempting tasty holiday treats stay well out of reach as well.

A winter hazard for cats is their discovery that a car engine is a toasty place to take a cat nap. Do you know where your cat is? If you have cats, make sure you check under the car's hood before starting your car in the morning.

While we may think that ticks and fleas take a winter nap with the rest of nature, it only causes them to jump more quickly onto your pet as they pass by. Continuing the monthly treatments recommended by your veterinarian will keep your dog healthy through the cold months.

With a few tips, you can protect your pets and give them the well-deserved care that they need to stay healthy and strong this winter. And isn't that the least we can do for them since they show us so much devotion and love each day?

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