How to protect your pets from dangerous upcoming cold weather
When winter storms and extreme cold weather plague Texas, we know how to protect ourselves and our property, but our furry friends are just as vulnerable.
Just like a person, a pet’s cold tolerance can vary based on their coat, body fat, activity level and health. For instance, arthritic and elderly pets may have more difficulty walking on snow or ice and are more prone to slipping and falling, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. Short-haired pets feel the cold faster because they have less protection than their long-haired counterparts, but playing dress-up with some sweaters and jackets is beneficial.
Stephanie Bilbro, director of operations at animal shelter Austin Pets Alive, said cats are known to have an easier time adjusting to extreme weather but they tend to find dangerous places to seek warmth.
“Check your car for cats,” she said. “Our feline friends like to hide from this weather in car engines and wheel wells, so thump the hood of your car a few times and check your wheels for stowaways before you start the engine and take off.”
The American Veterinary Medical Association said animals with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease or hormonal imbalances may have a harder time regulating their body temperatures and may be more susceptible to problems from temperature extremes.
Ellen Jefferson, president and CEO of Austin Pets Alive, said no pet should be left outside in frigid temperatures. It’s against the law in Texas. In 2021, the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act was passed, which states that pet owners must provide shelter to protect dogs from extreme temperatures, inclement weather and standing water.
It’s important to be cautious when taking your pet for walks during the winter season. The roads may contain chemicals like antifreeze, salt and ice-melting agents that can harm your pet’s paws. These chemicals can lead to paw irritation and hypernatremia (too much sodium in the blood); and if ingested, they can cause diarrhea, vomiting, seizures, lethargy, and dehydration.
Bilbro says to check your pet’s paws for any signs of cracking on the paw pads, redness between the toes, or bleeding. Wipe them down after each outing, to remove any salt, ice or chemicals.
Finally, as the winter season brings the risks of severe weather conditions like power outages and blizzards, it is important to prepare an emergency kit for your pet. Make sure to include enough food, water and medicine to last at least five days.