Somerset Animal Hospital
11279 Stewart Neck Road
Princess Anne, Maryland

410 651 1044

Veterinarians:
Dr. Danny T. Noble
Dr. James L.B. Thompson

Winterizing your Pet


Just like with your house, wardrobe, and car, the onset of the cold weather means taking a little care to ensure that your pets' winter is trouble-free. Here are a few tips that will keep them safe and warm.

Food

Pets spending time outdoors will need extra calories to help stay warm. It is not unusual for outdoor pets to put on a few pounds in cold weather. Make sure they have plenty of good food.

Water

As always, fresh water is important. In the winter, it is important that water does not freeze. Special bowls are available to keep water from freezing, or filling one bowl with hot water (while filling another as usual) will suffice in most weather.

Antifreeze

Most antifreeze is EXTREMELY toxic to animals. Just a few drops can kill a cat, and a small puddle can kill a dog. In addition, antifreeze is tasty and attractive to pets. I could write an entire article on the horrors of antifreeze (maybe next time) but for now remember to watch for spills, be careful with disposal of antifreeze, and keep your car maintained. One company, Sierra, makes a non-toxic product, and I would love to see this supported.

Shelter

Make sure there is some shelter available to your pet that is protected from wind and precipitation, and if you have more than one pet make sure they will share. Shelter alone may not be sufficient for short-haired breeds; consider a sweater or coat. One can be made inexpensively by trimming an old sweatshirt or turtleneck sweater.

Car Engines

Engines make safe, cozy resting places for cats. Make a habit of pounding on the hood of your car before starting it on cold mornings. You may save a cat's life.

Paws

Keep the hair trimmed from between your dog's toes, and keep your pet's paws free of ice and salt as much as possible.

Poisons

Watch out for special holiday dangers. Mistletoe berries can be very toxic -- induce vomiting and call your veterinarian if ingested. Holly leaves and berries can also be poisonous. Poinsettias have a reputation as being very toxic, but in reality only cause an upset stomach. Artificial snow and stencil sprays used for holiday decorations can contain methylene chloride, which can cause signs like carbon monoxide poisoning. Chocolate can cause restlessness, increased heart rate, vomiting, and diarrhea. In high enough quantities it can be lethal. This is especially true with baking chocolate and small dogs, so keep your holiday and Valentine candy out of reach.
 


Most of this information is common sense. Keep dangerous items out of your pet's reach, and remember that they are now domesticated animals, no longer adapted to life in the wild. Take care of them, and have a safe winter.