by Shirley Love

Created on: November 23, 2009   Last Updated: November 24, 2009

Caring for your pets during the long winter months can be crucial to their welfare. If you cannot keep them inside the warmth of your home, then it is your responsibility to provide as much warmth as possible to their homes.

A good sturdy house on a solid foundation is preferred, and any openings should face the southeast to guard against the icy northern winds as well as provide excess to the sun when it shines. Seal the cracks as you do for your own home with a good sealant As with any product, check for possible toxicity to animals.

Old blankets or rugs can provide a cozy place for your fur-faced friends to sleep inside their houses, or you might purchase a tent bed made especially for dogs and cats for even more protection.

Be sure to check on the state of their welfare at least twice a day. Their water must be unfrozen and fresh, and a little extra scoop of food is in order, since they burn more calories in winter in their effort to stay warm.

Check for signs of frostbite on their paws, ears, and tails. If you find ice crystals formed on those extremities, it is a good idea to bring the pet inside and soak their feet in warm water. Also check for any foreign objects such as rock salt or birdseed they may have lodged in their paws and clean that away as soon as possible.

Older pets or those with health issues should not be left outdoors for any length of time. Find a spot for them in the garage if possible and use a space heater with a thermostat to keep the chill out of the area. Use a heater that is electric and has safety features that will shut off if accidentally knocked over.

Pet sweaters can be a great warming device. So what if your big bruiser, Bluto looks a little silly of sissified? That idea is only a man-thing. The woman of the house may think he looks cute! The important thing is the warmth it can provide and your big Bluto deserves to stay warm and cozy just as much as your precious little Midge! I imagine both would appreciate the extra care.

Keep poisonous seasonal plants away from you pets. Poinsettias, mistletoe and holly berries spell danger and can be fatal if swallowed. Call you veterinarian if you suspect your pet has ingested any of these.

Know the danger signs associated with hypothermia such as extreme shivering or lethargy. This condition calls for immediate attention.

Have your pet's overall health condition checked by your veterinarian before winter sets in and if there are any dangers involved with keeping him outside, then find a place for him inside. That would be the ideal situation for any pet. They trust us with their lives and most of them shower us with unconditional love and loyalty. In many cases, they are our best friends, and we should treat them as such.

A little extra tender, loving care during the winter months may make the difference as to whether or not they will still be with us in the spring. You know they deserve that much from us, at the very least.

Learn more about this author, Shirley Love.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.