Extreme winter weather conditions are becoming more and more common throughout the Ottawa Valley, and the Ontario SPCA Renfrew County Animal Centre’s Community Outreach Coordinator says that might be taking a serious toll on our furry friends.
Heather Jobe explained that it’s important to recognize that pets can get uncomfortably cold just like people can.
Jobe says the Ontario SPCA urges pet owners to take extra care of their pets as needed, including limiting the length of time pets spend outside and watching for early signs that they’re cold.
Cats, puppies and short-coated dogs are at the greatest risk of negative health impacts from the cold, Jobe says, and in particularly extreme cases they might benefit from something like a sweater to help stay warm. She says small adjustments to your furry friend’s normal routine can make all the difference for their comfort during extreme weather.
Vehicles also pose a danger to animals in the winter months. Jobe encourages pet owners to leave their animals at home while running errands, so they aren’t stuck inside an uncomfortably cold car for prolonged periods, and to watch out for cats keeping warm under your vehicle’s hood.
Pet owners should also watch for wintertime chemicals like antifreeze and salt, which can be dangerous for animals. Antifreeze often has a sweet taste that can attract animals despite being dangerous to ingest, and salt can irritate animals’ paws.
Jobe also supports buying boots for pets to help protect their paws from irritants, and using pet-friendly alternatives to salt where possible. She also says some dogs want to be outside regardless of the weather, and owners should monitor them while they’re outside for signs of discomfort and modify their walking routes to give their furry friends chances to go inside and get warm.
If someone sees a dog outside in the cold and they’re concerned for its safety, Jobe urges them to contact Provincial Animal Welfare Services at 1-833-96-4625 or their local police.
The Ontario SPCA website has additional information and resources for pet owners looking for advice caring for their furry friends this winter.
(Written by Steve Berard)
