How To Ensure Your Pets Are Healthy & Happy In Winter

June 5, 2022

Author: Mark Ehrman

How To Ensure Your Pets Are Healthy & Happy In Winter

Like people, our pets can suffer in the winter if they’re not properly prepared. The key is finding the right balance between keeping your pets warm without overdoing it and ensuring they still get plenty of exercise.

Here are a few tips to help the many pet parents keep their furry friends happy and healthy all season long.

The Do’s and Don’ts for Winter for Your Pet Furry

The Do's and Don'ts for Winter for Your Pet Furry

Make Sure They Have Plenty of Food and Water
As the weather gets colder, it’s important to take extra steps to ensure your pet is comfortable and safe. Here are a few winter pet care tips to keep in mind:

  • DO make sure they have plenty of food and water. Like humans, pets need more calories in the winter to stay warm, so adjust their food accordingly. It’s also important to ensure their water bowl doesn’t freeze. You may need to invest in a heated water bowl or check on it more often throughout the day.
  • DON’T let them outside for too long. Yes, your pets need some fresh air and exercise, but they can quickly get cold and uncomfortable in the cold weather. Limit their time outdoors and ensure they have a place to enter if you want to keep your pet warm.
  • DO pay attention to their paw pads. Walking on snow and ice can be tough on their paw pads, so check them after walks and wipe them down with a wet cloth if necessary. You may also want to invest in some booties or traction socks to help protect their feet.
  • DON’T forget about their coat. Most pets will need extra help staying warm in the winter, especially if they are elderly or have short coats.

Exercise Them Regularly, Even in Cold Weather
As the weather gets colder, it’s tempting to curl up on the couch with your favorite warm blanket and binge-watch your favorite TV show. But just because it’s winter doesn’t mean your pet should be hibernating too! Regular exercise is important for your pet’s health, even in cold weather.

Of course, you’ll want to take extra precautions when exercising your pet in the winter. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  1. First, dress them in appropriate clothing. If it’s too cold for you to be outside without a coat, it’s the same for your pet! Keep your furry friend warm by bundling them in a warm coat or sweater to protect them from the elements.
  2. Second, pay attention to the pavement. In the winter, pavement can get very cold, which can be painful for your pet’s paws. If the pavement is too cold for you to walk on barefoot, it’s too cold for your pet. Stick to grassy areas or sidewalks that have been treated with salt or sand.
  3. Finally, please don’t overdo it. Just like humans, pets can get overexerted in the cold weather if they’re not used to it.

Protect Your Pets Paws From the Cold and Ice
As the temperature starts to dip, it’s important to take extra steps to protect your pet from the cold weather, especially their paws from the cold and ice. Salt and chemical agents can cause burns, making paw pads susceptible to cracking.

To prevent this, wipe your pet’s paws with a wet towel after every walk. You can also apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to their pads.

If you’re going to be out in the cold for an extended period, consider getting special dog boots to keep their feet warm and dry.

And, of course, make sure they have plenty of fresh water to drink – dehydration is a danger in the winter just as much as it is in the summer! With a little care, you can help your furry friend enjoy the winter months safely.

Bathe Them Less Often in Winter to Avoid Drying Out Their Skin
As the weather gets colder, you may spend more time indoors with your pet. While it’s tempting to want to pamper your pet with extra baths, it’s better to bathe them less often in winter. That’s because the cold weather can dry out their skin, making it vulnerable to irritation and itchiness. Instead, try spot-cleaning them with a damp cloth when they get dirty.

You should also use a mild soap and avoid hot water, which can further strip away natural oils. Once they’re clean, thoroughly dry them off with a towel before taking them back outside. These simple tips can help keep your pet comfortable and healthy all winter.

Brush Their Coat Regularly to Prevent Matting and Excessive Shedding
It’s no secret that winter can be tough on all of us, including our pets. The cold weather, dry air, and snow can affect their health and happiness. However, there are some simple things we can do to help them cope with the winter blues.

Here are some dos and don’ts for winter pet care:

  • Do brush their winter coats regularly. It will help to prevent matting and excessive shedding. It’s also a great way to bond with your pet and give them much-needed attention.
  • Don’t forget to exercise them regularly. Make sure to take your pets on walks, runs, or to the dog park for a playdate. Just because it’s cold outside doesn’t mean they don’t need to burn off some energy.
  • Do keep their fur clean and dry. Regular baths will help to keep their coat clean and healthy. It is imperative in the winter when they’re more likely to track in mud and slush from the outdoors.
  • Don’t neglect their diet. Like us, pets need certain nutrients to stay healthy in the winter. Ensure they get enough protein and fats in their diet to help them stay warm and maintain a healthy weight.

Take Your Pets to the Vet Regularly for Checkups
As the weather gets colder, it’s important to take extra steps to ensure your pet is healthy and happy all winter long. One of the most important things you can do is take them to the vet regularly for checkups.

Your vet will be able to identify any potential health problems and give you advice on how to keep your pet healthy during the winter months. They can also help you choose the right food and exercise plan for your pet.

In addition, make sure you provide plenty of fresh, clean water for your pet and keep their bedding clean and dry.

Finally, don’t forget to give them plenty of love and attention! By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your pet enjoys a happy and healthy winter.

You should consider pet insurance to avoid the high costs associated with pet health, especially with senior pets.

Be Aware of Winter Hazards Such as Antifreeze and Ice Melt Products
As the weather gets colder, it’s important to be aware of the dangers that winter can pose to your pet. Just as you protect yourself from the cold, consider taking the same precautions to keep your pet safe. Here are some of the do’s and don’ts for winter pet care:

  • DON’T leave your pet outside for extended periods. If you must leave them outdoors, ensure they have a warm, dry place to shelter them from the elements. Additionally, consider covering their outdoor sleeping area with a tarp or blanket to help insulate against the cold.
  • DO check your car before starting it up. Cats often sleep underneath cars, so be sure to honk your horn or knock on the hood to give them time to escape before starting the engine.
  • DON’T let your pet drink from puddles or eat snow. Ice and snow can contain chemicals that can be harmful to your pet.

Keep an Eye Out for Signs of Illness Such as Lethargy, Runny Nose, or Coughing
As the weather gets colder, it’s important to take extra steps to keep your pet healthy and happy. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • DO give your pet plenty of opportunities to stay active. Try to get them out for a walk or playtime every day, even if it’s just for a short time. Letting your pet lounge around all day can be easy in the winter, but exercise is vital for their overall health and wellbeing.
  • DO watch for signs of illness. In the winter, pets are more susceptible to illnesses like colds and flu. Keep an eye out for symptoms of illness such as lethargy, runny nose, or coughing, and if you notice any, be sure to take them to the vet immediately.
  • DON’T let your pet off their leash in snowy or icy conditions. Even if your pet is used to being off-leash, in the winter, they can easily lose their footing on ice or snow and get lost. So it’s best to keep them leashed up when you’re out and about in wintry weather.

Have a Plan in Place in Case Your Pet Gets Lost in the Winter Weather
During the winter months, it’s important to take extra care of your pets. Here are some tips on what to do (and not to do) to keep your furry friends safe and healthy all season long.

  • DO: Keep your pet well-groomed. Regular brushing will help remove dead or loose fur, making your pet more comfortable in colder weather. It will also help reduce shedding so that you won’t have as much pet hair around the house.
  • DON’T: Let your pet consume too much salt. Eating snow or licking sidewalks can lead to excess salt consumption, harming pets. Be sure to wipe their paws after they’ve been outdoors and give them fresh water to drink frequently.
  • DO: Keep an eye on antifreeze. This substance is poisonous to animals, so it’s essential to clean up any spills immediately and keep it out of reach of pets.
  • DON’T: Overdose on treats. We love to indulge our pets with special treats, but it’s important not to overdo it. Too many goodies can lead to weight gain and other health problems. Stick to a healthy diet for your pet, even during winter!
  • DO: Get a pet ID tag.

Final Thoughts on Having Pets Healthy and Happy in Winter

Final Thoughts on Having Pets Healthy and Happy in Winter

About Matraville Veterinary
Matraville has been synonymous with veterinary and pet care for the animals of Matraville and surrounding suburbs since 1994. At Matraville Veterinary Practice, we are proud to have the opportunity to keep these services available to the local community.

We have a newly renovated hospital with a dedicated team of highly experienced vets and nurses who love working together. “The local vets who know your pets.” At Matraville, Veterinary Practice aims to provide excellent veterinary care for any animal patient we see while treating them with sensitivity and compassion.

We are all animal owners who appreciate our pets’ truly special place in our lives.

We look forward to seeing you at our new hospital.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How Do I Keep My Dog Happy in the Winter?
As the weather gets colder, you may wonder how to keep your dog happy during winter. After all, we can’t curl up by the fireplace. Here are a few tips to help you keep your furry friend content when the temperatures drop:

  • Ensure they have plenty of warm bedding to snuggle up in. A heated pet bed can also be a lifesaver on frigid nights.
  • Ensure that they are getting enough exercise. Cold weather can be tough on humans, so giving our dogs extra time to run around and burn off energy is important.
  • Don’t forget the importance of mental stimulation.

Dogs can get bored just like we do, so ensure you provide them with plenty of toys and activities to keep their minds active. These tips can help your dog enjoy a happy and healthy winter season.
Can Pets Live in Cold Weather?
Pets come in all sizes and shapes, each with unique needs. While some animals thrive in warm weather, others are better suited to cold climates. So, what pets can live in cold weather?

Some popular options include dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs. All these animals have fur or hair that helps keep them warm in chilly temperatures. In addition, they are all relatively small, generating less body heat and less likely to get cold.

Of course, it’s essential to take steps to keep your pet comfortable in colder weather, such as providing a cozy bed or extra blankets. But with little care, any of these animals can thrive in a winter climate.

How To Keep Pets Happy and Healthy?
Many people believe that the key to a happy and healthy pet is lots of love and attention. While this is certainly important, you can also do some practical things to help your furry friend stay healthy and happy. For example, ensuring that your pet has access to fresh water is important. Pets can also benefit from a healthy diet, plenty of exercise, and regular visits to the veterinarian. By taking excellent care of your pet, you’ll be able to enjoy many years of companionship.

Got a question?

We’re here to help you with any urgent enquiries or assistance you might need. Need a little extra help, or not sure if you should bring your pet in for a check-up? Give our team a call and we’ll happily answer your questions.