Shovel a space for pets to relieve themselves.
Imagine you have to pee in the morning and you have to wade through snow up to your shoulders! Pets are not usually big fans of this either. Shovel a space for your pets so they have a place to relieve themselves.
Bring it in!
Inside the house, that is. Some pets like more time outside under fair weather conditions. When conditions get cold and snowy, it’s time to come in where it’s warm and dry! Provide a nice, cozy place to sleep.
Wipe your pet’s paws, face, and belly when they come in from outside.
Snow, ice clumps, ice-melt chemicals and salts could get stuck to your pet’s fur. Be sure to thoroughly wipe off any areas that are likely to be exposed. This protects your pet’s skin (and keeps your home cleaner!) Check in between the toes. Some ice-melt chemicals are very irritating to the skin. If you go for a walk, bring a towel along just in case you need to wipe something off your dog’s paws.
Avoid bathing the pet when it is very cold, if possible.
Even if you are lucky enough to have a pet who loves bath time, it may be best to wait for warmer days. Washing often can increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin, because it removes oils that protect the skin. The cold, dry air can be irritating to vulnerable skin.
Protect paws with pet shoes or petroleum jelly.
Paws can be spared some of the damage of the salt and chemical agents if you massage petroleum jelly into the paw pads. Paw-wear can be an even more stylish means of protecting those paws!
Provide enough food and water.
Drinking water keeps your pet well-hydrated and helps keep the skin from drying out. Your pet may also need a little more food in the wintertime, as pets burn extra energy to stay warm. Just make sure whatever food or treats you give them are pet-safe. Alcohol, foods with caffeine, chocolate, and the artificial sweetener xylitol (sometimes even found in peanut butter!) are common household foods that are dangerous for pets.
