Winter Care For Pets

The onset of winter poses special risks to your pets. A pet’s need for food, shelter and love increases during the cold winter months. When the temperature drops, bring your pets indoor with the rest of your family. Even if your mom won’t allow your pet to come in, there are things you can do to prevent the pet’s suffering in the winter.

While pets like Germen Shepherds and some long haired dogs are prepared for the cold weather, many pets are not. We develop a false sense of security about our pets’ ability to keep and stay warm because of their fur.Yet; pets can suffer from hypothermia just like people do.

If you are not allowed to keep your pet indoors, make a strong, dry and draught-free doghouse with a flap over the entrance. Be sure the doghouse is large enough so the dog can sit or stand to hold in his body heat. The floor should be at least 2 inches above the ground and covered inside with straw, which will dry faster than a towel or blanket if wet.

Staying warm requires extra calories. Increase your pet’s feed accordingly. This does not mean feeding all Diwali or New Year sweets to your dog, but a planned increase in caloric diet. Talk to your veterinarian about your pet’s needs. Pet’s can get dehydrated in winter too. So be sure your pet has plenty of fresh water. If your pet is not interested in plain water, add a little flavour such as milk in it.

Indoor pets should also be provided with a warm and dry area free from draughts. Provide a bedding on the floors, and wash the bedding every week, if possible. Your dog needs a well-groomed coat to keep it properly insulated. Regular brushing on daily or weekly basis will help remove dead hair and stimulate the skin to improve hair growth.

Avoid bathing the pet in winter. If you have to bathe your pet, do so on a sunny day and dry it with a towel before letting it loose.

Shorthaired pets may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater vest during the winter months, especially when taken out for a walk. When using a sweater, be careful about skin diseases which tend to remain hidden under the clothing.