Winter Weather Precautions

Please remind all pet owners to bring their pets indoors. Dogs & cats become hypothermic at temps below freezing. Frostbite is also possible.

Don't leave your pets outside when the temperature falls below freezing. FCDF reminds you that cold weather brings a whole host of problems for animals:

HYPOTHERMIA - It doesn't take long in frigid weather, (anything 32 Farenheit or below) for dogs and cats of ALL breeds to succumb to hypothermia. By definition, hypothermia is a lower-than-normal body temperature. The most common cause of hypothermia is prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. If left untreated, affected animals may develop signs of frostbite or can even die.

Preventing hypothermia is key. Do not leave your cat outside in freezing temperature for any length of time without access to shelter and warmth.

For more information on hypothermia and cold weather first aid, see

http://www.dog.com/vet/firstaid/03.html http://www.bayareapugs.com/BAPS/Medical/Hypothermia.htm http://petplace.netscape.com/articles/artShow.asp?artID=1117

DEHYDRATION - Frozen water dishes are easy to overlook so remember to check your pet's outdoor water dish. Also, consider using outdoor water and food dishes made of something other than steel.

INDOOR DOGS NEED TO GET OUT REGULARY - Regular exercise and answering nature's call dictate that your indoor dog get out regularly. Remember to use a leash if you don't have a fenced yard for your dog to use. Also, try to avoid walking your dog through water, slush or snow, if possible. Booties are good if cold precipitaion can't be avoided.

WARM CAR ENGINES CAN BE DANGEROUS - Ferral cats or cats allowed to live outdoors are often attracted to the shelter of an automobile's engine compartment, especially if it's still warm. Banging on the hood or tapping the horn BEFORE starting your engine is a good idea, particularly if you know that there are free-roaming cats in the area.

ANTIFREEZE POISONING - The sweet taste of antifreeze makes it an unintended poison for both animals and children. Click here to see our article on antifreeze precautions for more information.

SALT AND OTHER DE-ICING CHEMICALS - Although not very common in our area, de-icing chemicals used on roads and sidewalks can be irritating AND toxic if licked off the feet. After walks, wipe all four paws with a towel or damp cloth.