The Humane Society of Central Oregon is reminding pet owners about these tips to keep their furry loved ones safe as temperatures plummet.
- Pets are best kept inside.
- Bring your pet inside when the temperatures drop, also consider the wind-chill factor.
- Dogs and cats can get frost bitten ears, nose, and feet if left outside.
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- Seniors, young, small and short coated animals are vulnerable in the cold.
- If your pet must be kept outside:
- Provide a dry, elevated dog house with clean dry bedding and a flap over the opening to keep drafts out. Heated pet beds are available.
- Make sure the water bowl does not freeze. Heated water bowls are available.
- Outdoor pets need more calories to produce body heat.
- Oregon laws regarding adequate Shelter and Minimum Care are ORS 167.310 to 167.351.
- Make sure a cat has not crawled under your car seeking shelter and warmth near the engine. Tap on hood before starting the engine.
- Booties allow your dog to walk in the snow and prevent injury from ice.
- Dog jackets and sweaters are more than fashion, they will keep small, senior and single coated dogs warm.
- Chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate paws. Buy “pet safe” ice melters. Wash off paws if pets have walked through chemicals.
- Keep antifreeze, salt and other household poisons away from pets.
- Clear snow berms from fence line to prevent pets from escaping.
- Watch your pet around heating stoves to prevent burns and dehydration.
- Horses, chickens and other livestock need winter care too:
- Make sure there is clean, dry bedding. Moist bedding can cause infection.
- Make sure water in trough does not freeze.
- Have hooves checked and prepared for winter.
The Humane Society of Central Oregon rents crates for $5 a month to keep pets safe and warm indoors. For more information call the Humane Society of Central Oregon at 541 382-3537 or visit hsco.org.
