Winter and Your Pet

The Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society (KWHS) reminds pet owners to keep their pets indoors whenever possible on cold days.  A fur coat does not exclude pets from frostbite and hypothermia, and Ontario’s laws require that animal guardians supply proper care and shelter.

How cold is too cold?

• If it is below freezing, pets should not be left outside for extended periods of time.
• “Wind chill warning” means keep your pet’s time outside to a minimum.
• Bring them in if they are shivering, vocalizing, or the paw hop.
• Young and old pets or pets on medication can be more susceptible to the cold - keep them indoors as much as possible.

Toxic Temptations

• - Ethylene glycol, found in anti-freeze and some brake fluids, tastes sweet to pets but can cause death.   Symptoms are stumbling, vomiting and acting as if they are intoxicated. Be sure to clean up spills and store it where pets cannot reach.  Watch for spills when out on walks.
• Wipe your pet’s paws to prevent them from ingesting salt or chemicals or use "booties".
• Christmas decorations and traditional holiday plants can be hazardous to your pet’s health.
• Lilies used in floral arrangements can cause kidney failure in cats if ingested.
• Holly and live mistletoe can cause vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy if eaten by your pet.
• Christmas tree water contains fertilizers or bacteria in stagnant tree water.
• Poinsettias can irritate your pet’s mouth, cause nausea or mild vomiting.
• Monitor Christmas treats—all things in moderation, you don’t want a sick pet this holiday season.
• Chocolate can cause death from heart failure in dogs and cats.  Dark chocolate is most dangerous, but chocolate poisoning can even occur if small amounts are fed repeatedly.
• Milk products can cause pets to become ill as they lose their ability to digest lactose with age.
• 'Bloat" is caused by too much gas or fluid in the stomach and could lead to your dog’s stomach flipping (rotation); a deadly condition.  Deep-chested dogs are most at risk, but rotation has     occurred in dogs that have been allowed to eat too fast. Signs include: abdominal  distention,  salivating, retching, lethargy or a rapid heart rate.
• Cold and flu season means medication. Keep all medication out of animals reach.  One Tylenol™ tablet can be fatal to a cat.

Always consult your veterinarian about any health concern!

Car Hazards

• Leaving your pet in the car in cold weather could cause them to freeze to death as car holds in the cold.
• Pets can lose their way in the snow and sound dampening effects mean pets can’t hear cars coming.
• Cats seeking warmth often end up inside car engines which could prove fatal.  Be sure to knock on your hood before starting your car.

Warmth is Welcome

• Keep pets comfortable and warm at night, try a hot water bottle.
• Coats and booties help your dog stay toasty warm.
• Don’t shave your dog down to the skin - a longer coat will provide more warmth.
• After bathing your pet ensure they are completely dry before allowing them outside.

Exercise

• Don’t forget the value of exercise for you and your pets. It is one of the best ways of warming up in cooler weather.
• Be sure to check your pet's paws for ice balls or injuries.
  
• If your pet is having difficulty exercising due to snow, icy surfaces, or appears to be winded, shorten the usual exercise times.

Outdoor Pets

KWHS recommends that all pets be allowed to spend their winter days indoors.  However, those pets that do spend a great deal of time outside still need protection.  In particular, they need adequate housing and refuge from the cold.

Frozen Foods

• Cats and dogs that live outside require more calories in the winter allowing their body to produce heat.
• Check water dishes frequently to ensure it's not frozen or spilled over or opt for a heated and tip-proof bowl.
  
• Indoor-only animals may actually need fewer calories in the winter to avoid weight gain.
  

Sufficient dog houses are…

• An appropriate size, as dogs use body heat to heat the house.
• Built with weatherproof materials.
• Facing away from prevailing winds.
• Filled with straw bedding that is changed frequently.  Blankets and rugs freeze too quickly.
• Elevated 6 inches off the ground.
• Insulated with Styrofoam, with a clear rubberized covering on the doors.
• Easy for your pet to get into.
• Built with a small hallway leading to a larger resting space.

Do not use a heat lamp or other type of home heater as it may cause fires.  On the coldest days allow the pet to come indoors.

>>Click here for plans to build the perfect doghouse!<<

Always consult your veterinarian about any health concern!

Never surprise a loved one with a pet as a gift. If a new pet is on their Christmas list, agree to help them find the right pet after Christmas.  Pet owners should always make a fully informed decision.

Kitchener - Waterloo Humane Society:
Since 1927, the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society (KWHS) has been responsible for the welfare of animals in the twin cities of Kitchener, Waterloo, and their surrounding communities.  KWHS is one of the largest humane societies in Ontario.  As a member of the community, our mission is to be a proactive leader in providing humane care through education, advocacy and enforcement to promote the well-being of all animals.

For more information, please contact Ward McAlister, Executive Director, or Kathy Innocente, Fundraising & Community Relations Manager at the Kitchener-Waterloo Humane Society at 519-745-5615.