Weather Safety
Cold Weather Guidelines
- Provide outdoor dogs with an insulated doghouse with straw bedding, NOT a blanket. Blankets absorb moisture that will cause the blanket to freeze.
- When your dog comes in from outside, wipe off and towel dry it’s legs and stomach. Check sensitive paw pads, which may bleed from snow or ice encrusted in them.
- Ensure elderly animals, puppies, small dogs and dogs with short hair are not left out for extended periods of time.
- Never allow dogs off leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs frequently lose their scent in snow and ice and can easily become lost.
- Outdoor dogs require energy for warmth and should be fed an increased supply of food. Provide fresh water in a non-metal dish, as a dog’s tongue can easily freeze to the metal. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water.
Hot Weather Guidelines
- Carry cool water for your pet to drink at frequent intervals while out walking.
- Try to avoid open areas in the blazing sun- find shady areas that offer some relief.
- Keep in mind that if YOU are feeling overheated, your furry friend is probably feeling hotter!
- NEVER leave your dog in a vehicle - even for a few minutes. It only takes a short time before your dog may suffer severe brain damage or death.
- If your pet shows signs of heat exhaustion, take it to the nearest vet immediately!