Outdoor Tips

03/07/2008

Antifreeze is deadly. If enough is ingested, it can cause kidney failure. It is a cruel fact that this toxic substance has a sweet taste, so animals are drawn to it. Even a small amount can be extremely hazardous to your pet’s health. Please clean up spills in the driveway and store containers out of the reach of your companion animals.  An alternative is to purchase a non-toxic antifreeze.  Check with your car mechanic for more information on this.

Although the salt used to melt snow and ice on roadways helps us drive safely, it can be harmful to the pads of your pet’s feet, so make sure you wipe the feet with a damp towel after a romp outside. 

Cats and other small animals will often climb inside a parked car, near the engine because it is a warm refuge. Before you start your car, bang on the hood or honk your horn to scare any animals away and avoid a horrible accident. 

Before taking your dog out for a winter walk, fit him or her with a sweater or heavy tee shirt. This is an inexpensive way to protect your dog from the cold and it works great for small and large dogs. The freezing cold temperatures constrict the bronchi of the lungs, so it is important to keep the chest warm.

Here’s one final word of advice for all pet parents with senior and arthritic dogs and cats. The cold weather is particularly hard on these animals. Their joints may be become a little more tender than usual and their mobility may decrease due to stiffness. Supervision when climbing stairs or walking on the ice outside is necessary to avoid slip and fall accidents. A ramp will make it easier to get in and out of the house. And, of course, a comfortable pet bed really goes a long way for these animals. 

I hope you and your companion animals enjoy a wonderful and safe winter season.

Posted: 03/07/2008 at 12:14 PM
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Posted: 03/07/2008 at 12:14 PM
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