Cold Weather Pet Safety

1. No Damp Lady’s or Tramps
If you use a garment, like a dog sweater or coat, always make sure it is dry and change it if it becomes damp. Wet clothing can actually make your pet more cold. Also make sure your pet has full range of motion in any sweater and it isn't too tight. Your pet should be able to walk, run, and jump with ease. 
2. Get a Check-up 
Cold weather can exacerbate chronic health issues like arthritis. Getting a check up is important for your pet’s care even for seemingly healthy pets. 
3. Check Your Vehicle For Hidden Kitties!
Cats are attracted to the warmth and shelter of vehicles. Check your vehicle before starting it to help kitties out. Tapping on the hood to alert any sleeping animals can save a pet’s life.
4. MICROCHIP Your Pet and REGISTER It
Snow can affect your pet’s sense of smell and ability to find their way home. Microchipping and placing an ID tag on them can help get your pet returned to you. The only way a microchip is helpful in locating you (the owner) is if it is registered with your updated information. Any found animals can be brought to a shelter or vet clinic and they will scan the animal for a chip. The shelter or clinic can then look up the chip number to find your information and return your pet to their rightful owners. 
5. Long Hair, Don’t Care
Skip the short shave grooming appointment and opt for a longer doo for your pet during the colder months. Long hair coats provide much needed warmth and protection from the harsh elements. If their fur gets unruly give them a little trim and brush out instead of the shave. 
6. Protect Those Paws
Before heading outdoors protect your pet’s paws. Massage a paw protectant into/onto the pads for protection against irritating ice balls and chemicals from ice melt. Booties are a great option if your pet will tolerate them. Paw protectants can double as moisturizers for your pet too!
7. Light Up the Night
Thanks to daylight savings time, many owners end up walking their pets in the dark. For this reason, it is important to invest in high-visibility reflective gear for both you and your furry friend! Lowered visibility due to darkness, rain, and snow make it essential that you’re both seen! Reflective or light up collars, leashes, and jackets for your pet and you make big differences.