Atlanta can get cold too! Tips from Dr. Jen for Winter Pet Care

Winter brings unique challenges for pets and their owners, and pets in Decatur and east Atlanta are no exception. This photo is of a working Husky I met on a recent trip to Alaska, and he was not cold at all! But, pets who aren't used to this type of weather can struggle when the temperature goes down.

I recently was thrilled to be part of a recent segment on Winter Pet Care for The Weather Channel. Here are some of the highlights I shared!

Tips to Stay Toasty

• Bring them in! When temps dip below freezing or when the weather is wet, it is safest to bring pets inside.

• Dress pets appropriately: Short-haired or small breeds benefit from sweaters or coats during outdoor walks. Booties may also help protect feet.

• Limit outdoor time: Shorten walks or playtime outside.

• Watch for signs of cold stress: Shivering, whining, or reluctance to move can indicate your pet is too cold. Pale or blue skin, lethargy, and weakness require immediate veterinary care.

  
  

If They Stay Outside

• Keep them dry - wet fur makes it harder to stay warm, and can be dangerous in cold temperatures. Pets must have a place when they can stay dry!

• Keep fresh water available at all times. Remember, outdoor water bowls can freeze quickly! Use heated bowls or change water frequently to prevent freezing.

• Provide warm bedding sheltered from the rain/snow. Use straw to insulate outdoor spaces, as towels and blankets can retain moisture and make it colder.

• Check on outdoor pets often, and bring them in if you can!

  
  

Protect Those Paws!

• Ice can build up on paws and be painful. Trim the fur between paw pads -- this reduces ice buildup and slipping.

• Watch out for salt! We often put out salt on sidewalks and roads when it's icy, but this can be very irritating to paws. Use a pet-safe de-icer when possible.

• Rinse and then carefully dry paws after walks to wash off any salt.

  
  

Stay Safe Inside

• Keep pets away from heaters and fireplaces: Pets can get burned or knock over items causing fires.

• Avoid toxic plants and decorations: Holiday plants like poinsettias and mistletoe can be harmful if eaten.

• Provide mental stimulation during days with less outdoor activity. Use toys and games to keep pets engaged.

  
  

Don't Forget the Outdoor Cats

• We have some lovely community cat programs in Atlanta, but outdoor cats can find themselves in trouble in the winter.

• Cats often seek warm places to curl up - and sometimes this means car engines.

• If you have feral cats in your area, bang on your car hood when you are starting up, giving them a chance to escape first.

  
  

In Closing

Decatur is a wonderful pet-loving community, and I am so grateful to everyone who looks out for their (and neighborhood) pets! Hope you find these tips helpful, and happy winter everyone.