Question:
Protect Your Pet From Winter's Woes

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Don't leave dogs outdoors when the temperature drops. Most dogs, and all cats, are safer indoors, except when taken out for exercise. Regardless of the season, shorthaired, very young, or old dogs and all cats should never be left outside without supervision. Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks.

No matter what the temperature, windchill can threaten a pet's life. A dog or cat is happiest and healthiest when kept indoors. If your dog is an outdoor dog, however, he/she must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.

Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal.

Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them away before starting your engine.

The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Wipe the feet with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates his/her mouth.

Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach. Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or your family.

Answer:
TIP FOR PAWS: you know hard the salt is on their feet. If you put KY Jelly on their paws it protects them and wipes right off it is water soluble and way cheaper than the stuff at the pet store which I am willing to bet is the same thing. The salt does not penetrate the jelly.

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There is a salt safe for pets you can buy it at any pet store. I bought a 25 pound pile of $25.00 not bad and it does not hurt dogs feet I have used it for yrs.

Answer:
That's true, but I think Mastiff is referring to city street where they use very harsh (and large amounts) of salt. Briggs has booties for the winter... she hates putting them on, but she walks fine in them...

Originally Posted by goldenblaze
There is a salt safe for pets you can buy it at any pet store. I bought a 25 pound pile of $25.00 not bad and it does not hurt dogs feet I have used it for yrs.



Answer:
Yeah I meant the streets my building we pay the difference and they use the stuff that doesnt hurt their paws. Deal we made with the landlord since there are so many dog owners costs us about 5.00 each well worth it

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mastifflover, I agree it is well worth any cost.

sammiec, I have the boots for both my dogs and Jordie hates them. He will not walk in them at all. How did you get your dog to wear them without a fight? This is Blaze's first winter, can't wait to she what he thinks of a snowman.

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