Seasonal Tips
Antifreeze
- Risk of exposure to this deadly liquid is increased in the colder months
- Please keep pets in mind when you use and store (or spill!)antifreeze
Bodies of water
- As the temperature drops, be wary that not all bodies of water freeze at the same rate
- Ponds, streams and even pools can become deadly if an animal falls through the ice and can’t get out
Dark & Stormy nights
- Not only does it get dark outside earlier, but blowing snow can obscure vision.
- When walking outdoors, keep dogs leashed, and use a collar and leash with reflective striping
- Cats are best kept indoors during snowy and stormy weather
Pets are best kept indoors during the cold weather. If they do go outdoors, please ensure they have:
- A lined sweater or jacket for small, older, or thin-haired dogs
For those pets that are outside year-round, for the winter months they require sufficient, insulated shelter, (preferably heated), access to food, and water that will not freeze
Outdoor cats often are attracted to warm car engines; and will crawl up under the hood of your car. Give a honk of your horn before starting your engine to give them sufficient warning to get out!
Your car can be deadly in the heat of summer, but in winter acts like a chest freezer! Pets should not be left in your car during the winter.
The comfort and heat of a woodstove or gas fireplace attracts pets. Keep an eye on pets who may be inclined to jump on hot surfaces or burn curious noses!
For aging pets, the effects of arthritis can become more prominent as temperatures fall and snow builds up.
- make sure pet beds are in a warm spot and away from drafts
- take shorter walks on cleared sidewalks
- clear a path free of snow in your yard so your pet can wander more easily
- speak to your regular veterinarian about medications to help ease your pet’s discomfort (never start any medication without consulting your veterinarian)
More time indoors
Long winters and less outdoor exercise for some pets may cause boredom or weight gain
Pets tend to take advantage of the increased opportunity to get into food, medications, or trouble around the house. Providing adequate exercise (indoor if necessary), toys, and enrichment will help keep your pet out of trouble!
Paws
For pets with sensitive paws, boots should be considered to help keep paws warm and prevent irritation from road and sidewalk salt used during the winter
If your pet doesn’t wear boots, snow and salt should be cleaned off their paws as soon as possible after coming inside
Pet-friendly de-icers are available and are the best option for outdoor areas frequented by your pet, but paws should still be wiped clean when coming in from outside
Winter Sports
While your pet may enjoy participating in outdoor activities with you during the winter months, please consider their safety when operating snowmobiles or four-wheelers, and when moving/storing/wearing ice skates or skis due to their sharp edges.
Holiday Season
Tinsel & ribbon
Although pretty, shiny, and festive, the ingestion of tinsel, ribbon, string or elastic bands can lead to serious intestinal obstructions, especially in cats
Christmas trees
Pets get excited by decorations too! Their excitement and curiosity can cause ornaments to fall or break, leading to hazards such as broken glass or ingestion
Christmas trees should be secured in a tree stand and/or to a wall or banister to avoid your pet pulling them down, especially when you’re not at home
Electrical cords used for your tree can be extremely dangerous if chewed by your pet
Candles
Pet’s tails and fur combined with lots of activity in your house may lead to burns or fire hazards. Keep candles secure and out of reach of pets, or use flameless candles for the same, but safer, effect!
Toys
While exciting for children, small parts, pieces and batteries can be problematic for your pet if ingested. Pick up after children are done playing and be mindful of curious pets.
Loud, moving, or electronic toys can be frightening for pets. Ensure your pets are able to get to safe and quiet place if there is too much hustle and bustle.
Guests
With the excitement of the holidays and visitors to your home, pets may be temporarily "forgotten". Be mindful of how your pet is interacting with guests, and ensure your pet has a place to “escape” from the hustle and bustle if needed
Ensure your guests respect your pet’s behaviors and make them aware of any issues your pet may have (dietary, physical)
Remind your family and guests to keep medications secure and out of your pet’s reach
Holiday fare
While we all like to indulge in holiday feasts, keep in mind what you eat isn’t always safe for your pets
Bones, fatty foods, alcohol and especially chocolate can lead to serious gastrointestinal issues or more severe consequences
Holiday season flowers
The holiday season brings many beautiful and colorful plants and flowers into our homes. Please use caution and consider pets when decorating your own home or bringing a hostess gift to someone else’s home! Please be aware of the following if these plants or flowers are ingested by your pet:
- Lilies
Available throughout the year and popular during the holidays, Lilies can cause kidney failure and can be lethally toxic to our feline friends. For more information, please visit: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/easter_lily.html - Poinsettias
Although they have a bad reputation, Poinsettias’ are not usually lethal, but can cause mild stomach upset, vomiting and/or diarrhea. For more information, please visit: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/poinsettia.html - Mistletoe
General symptoms of ingesting Mistletoe include gastrointestinal upset and cardiovascular problems. For more information, please visit: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/mistletoe-american.html - Holly
Ingestion can lead to nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. For more information, please visit: http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/holly.html
