❄️ COLD WEATHER SAFETY TIPS FOR PETS ❄️
When temperatures drop, a few simple precautions can keep your furry friends safe, warm, and happy!
🐾 Watch out for antifreeze
Antifreeze has a sweet taste that attracts pets—but even tiny amounts can be deadly. Clean up spills right away and consider using propylene glycol–based antifreeze, which is less toxic to animals.
🐾 Bring pets indoors
It’s a myth that pets are fine outside in winter. Dogs and cats are safest and happiest indoors, only going out briefly for supervised exercise. Cold weather can quickly cause hypothermia and frostbite—especially on ears and tails.
🐾 Dress for the weather
Short-haired dogs may need sweaters, and many dogs benefit from booties to protect their paws. If your pup is lifting their feet, whining, or stopping during walks, they’re probably too cold.
🐾 Take extra care with seniors
Older or arthritic pets can stiffen quickly in the cold and may slip on ice. Keep them close and move slowly to prevent falls.
🐾 Leash up in snowstorms
Even the most well-trained dogs can lose their scent and become lost in snowy conditions. Always leash your dog and make sure they’re wearing ID tags.
🐾 Protect those paws
Ice melt, salt, and chemicals can irritate paws and be harmful if licked. Wipe your pet’s feet with a damp towel after walks.
🐾 Check under the hood
Cats and small animals may seek warmth inside car engines. Bang on the hood or honk before starting your car to avoid injury.
🐾 Never leave pets in cars
Cars do not stay warm in winter and can act like refrigerators. Pets can freeze quickly—leave them safely at home or bring them inside with you.
🐾 Be prepared
Stock up on food, litter, and fresh water in case bad weather keeps you from getting to the store.
🐾 Help community cats stay warm
If you’re concerned about feral or outdoor cats, consider offering them a winter shelter. If you’re handy, you can make one using a plastic storage tub or Styrofoam cooler, or you can purchase a ready-made shelter. Even a small, insulated space can make a big difference in freezing temperatures.
👉 Learn more about shelter options here: https://www.alleycat.org/…/feral-cat-shelter-options…/ Let’s
keep our pets safe, warm, and loved all winter long! ❤️🐶🐱
