{"id":304,"date":"2020-01-23T17:36:04","date_gmt":"2020-01-23T22:36:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.passionatelypets.com\/blog\/?p=304"},"modified":"2020-02-21T13:04:16","modified_gmt":"2020-02-21T18:04:16","slug":"5-tips-to-keep-your-pet-safe-this-winter","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.passionatelypets.com\/blog\/5-tips-to-keep-your-pet-safe-this-winter\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Tips to Keep Your Pet Safe This Winter"},"content":{"rendered":"

\u00a0It\u2019s well known that Northern Virginia has inconsistent weather. Some days can be frigid and others can feel like it\u2019s spring in the middle of January! With this list (and our accompanying post about warm weather in a few months!), you\u2019ll be prepared for whatever comes you\u00a0and your pet\u2019s way this winter!<\/h2>\n

 <\/p>\n

Here are our top 5 tips to make sure everyone is warm and safe this winter:<\/h3>\n
    \n
  1. Stay Inside <\/strong>Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia. While longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds are more tolerant\u00a0\"\"of\u00a0cold weather, no pet should be left outside for long periods\u00a0in below-freezing weather. You will probably need to shorten your dog’s walks to protect you both from weather-associated health risks. For cats, we recommend keeping them inside during the coldest months of the year and return them to their glorious outdoor cat status once the warmth begins again. Remember, if it\u2019s too cold for you, then it\u2019s probably too cold for your pet.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
      \n
    1. Know Your Pet\u2019s Limits (If You Do Take Them Outside)<\/strong> Be aware of your pet’s tolerance for cold weather, and adjust accordingly. Animals with shorter coats are more at risk in cold weather, but anyone can be susceptible. Arthritic and elderly pets may have more difficulty walking on snow and ice and may be more prone to slipping and falling. Pets with chronic illnesses, especially auto-immune diseases, may have a harder time regulating their body temperature and may be more susceptible to problems from temperature extremes. If you need help determining your pet’s temperature limits, consult your veterinarian.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n
        \n
      1. Prevention<\/strong> Exposure to winter\u2019s dry, cold air and chilly rain,\u00a0sleet and snow can cause hypothermia, but there are also\u00a0smaller issues like chapped paws and flaking skin to be concerned about.\u00a0 Exposed skin on noses, ears and paw pads are at risk for frostbite. For this reason, many pets often feel more comfortable wearing a coat or sweater\u2014even during short walks.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n