Five Effective Ways to Keep Outdoor Pets Warm During Cold Weather
Some pets suffer in the winter due to their owners’ misconceptions that they don’t need any additional protection from the cold. The truth is that special precautions must be taken to protect your outdoor pets from the elements so that they are not exposed to serious safety risks. Keep your pets warm, comfortable, and safe by following these procedures.
Give Them Plenty of Food
Animals require sufficient calories to generate body heat. They also pack on body fat in preparation for the winter. For both of these reasons, pets need a little bit more food than usual when the temperatures start dropping.
Provide Warm Shelter
Pets need somewhere to escape the elements, especially if it’s wet or windy. Make sure that your pet has a doghouse or another type of shelter so that they can take refuge from cold winds. An enclosed patio, breezeway, or garage can also serve as shelter. Be sure to include a heat source as well such as a space heater or an electric blanket.
Dress Them Up
Just like humans, pets can stay warm with an extra layer. There are sweaters, jackets, and even boots for dogs that help them retain body heat. They might seem obstinate about wearing these garments at first, but they’ll get accustomed to it eventually.
Watch for Extreme Temperatures
In general, pets should not be left outside for prolonged periods in single digit temperatures. An easy way to monitor this risk is to build outdoor temperature sensors into your security system. A firm just like your South Florida home security company will send you an automated message if the temperatures drop to a dangerous level, allowing you to get your pet to a safer place. If you plan to take advantage of this option, ask your ADT security company if they have affiliates or franchises in other states with cold weather.
Maintain the Health of Their Fur
A healthy coat of fur is critical for a pet’s comfort and safety in cold weather. Keep it healthy by choosing a brand of pet food that meets all of their nutritional needs. You should also take them to the veterinarian on a regular basis. The veterinarian should treat any ailments that could result in fur falling out and exposing bare skin to the elements.
Outdoor pets shouldn’t be left to brave the freezing temperatures with no precautions in place. They are happiest and healthiest when they are provided with warmth and protection from severe weather. These ideas make it easy to get your outdoor pets through the winter in comfort and safety.
