Q: I have two cats and one dog. Now that winter is approaching what should I do to maintain my pet's health?
A: Just as we prepare our homes and vehicles for the cold winter weather we must also take special measures to help our pets remain comfortable and healthy during the winter months.
Having proper shelter is a necessity for both humans and pets. If your dog lives outdoors in a doghouse you must be certain that his shelter is warm, dry and windproof. The doghouse must be large enough for the dog to turn around in but small enough not to disperse his body heat. The entrance must be covered with heavy burlap or plastic to retain heat. Clean straw or cedar wood shavings are preferred to fabric blankets because blankets can become wet and freeze solid. Some large breeds of dogs such as Malamutes and Huskies are happy in the winter and prefer to live outside. However, even those breeds should have an alternative shelter. Dogs that are outside for long periods of time should be fed a little more food because they use more calories to generate heat for themselves by shivering. Finally, never use metal bowls for water because your dog's tongue can stick to the frozen metal causing fear and injury. Instead, purchase a ceramic or plastic bowl for your pooch.
Frostbite can and does occur in dogs and cats. Thankfully, it is rare in healthy pets unless there are extenuating circumstances. Frostbite happens when ice crystals form on the tips of the ears, tail and/or paws. Frostbitten areas typically appear gray, red or white and may peel. If you suspect your pet has suffered frostbite soak the affected area in warm water for 20 to 30 minutes, then wrap the animal in a blanket and transport it to the nearest veterinarian. If you live near a lake, river or pond do not allow your dog to run onto frozen areas because he may fall through the ice. Don't leave your dog unsupervised when outdoors in these areas.
Cats that go outdoors will often self-regulate their exposure to cold. Cats instinctively seek heat and may crawl into a vehicle's engine compartment. If both your car and your cat are kept outdoors I suggest you routinely give a firm thump to your vehicle's hood with your hand or a brief toot of the horn to startle an animal out from under your car before starting the engine. Speaking of cars, dogs and cats are attracted to anti-freeze that contains ethylene glycol, a chemical that is highly toxic. Now there are other types of anti-freeze available that contain propylene glycol which is a safer alternative. Be sure your car isn't leaking anti-freeze and if it is, wipe it up immediately.
When your dog or cat comes inside after walking in the snow always check the pads of its paws for cuts and irritation. Remove any ice from between the pads.
Shorthaired and small dogs may be more comfortable wearing a coat when exposed to cold temperatures. There is a wide selection of outerwear available to fit any size dog and the materials and fabrics are equal in protection to human clothing.
Your pet's nutritional needs and diet should be adjusted during the winter. Unless your dog is extremely active you may want to slightly decrease the amount of food you are feeding him to avoid his becoming overweight. Another issue related to dry winter weather is dry skin. I recommend adding Omega-3 fish oil to your pet's diet as well. Make sure your pet has plenty of fresh water to keep him adequately hydrated. And, continue your pet's annual veterinary examinations.
Following these guidelines will help ensure that your pet remains healthy and happy throughout the cold winter season.
Dr. Mark Howes, DVM, is the Medical Director and owner of Berglund Animal Hospital in Evanston, Illinois. The advice contained in this column is for informational purposes only. Readers should consult with their own veterinarian to evaluate their pet's illness or medical condition. Questions may be directed to Dr. Howes by contacting him through his web site at: www.berglundvet.com
