Winter weather can be as trying for pets as it is for their owners.
For indoor pets not used to the cold and not much tolerance for it, limit their time outdoors, suggested
Dr. Dave Ernsthausen, of the Animal Hospital at West Ridge. The key is to limit their time outdoors,
particularly with walks.
Outdoor pets need special attention as well.
They’ll need some form of shelter to block the wind and some kind of bedding to keep them dry. Wet coats
and paws can lead to frostbite, Ernsthausen cautioned.
They’ll also need to opportunity to drink, so keep ice clear from their water bowl, and don’t limit their
food as they’ll need plenty to sustain their normal metabolic rates, he said.
“It’s making good judgements. If you’re cold, they’re probably cold, too,” he stated.
John Krukemyer, vice president for retail at Mid-Wood True Value, noted that items for animals, including
heated pet bowls and stock de-icers have been popular.
“Pretty much anything that can generate heat and keep water from freezing.”
“They need to be able to keep fresh water” for animals, he said. “They can dehydrate just as easily in
the middle of winter” as in summer.
He also advised that the animals should be kept out of the elements.
Additionally, owners should be aware of the fact that “the animals are actually going to burn more
protein and more fat due to the fact that they’re trying to stay warm.”