Keeping pets safe, healthy during winter

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Matthew Hubby
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  As winter approaches, a certain group is often overlooked. Many end up in shelters, but some lucky ones find a caring home, others are not so lucky, falling victim to the hazards of the season. The winter season is always a rough time for pets and animals, and it is important to ensure not only their safety, but the people who own them as well.

A common cause of pet deaths during the winter is anti-freeze poisoning. It is important for both people alike to clean up anti-freeze spills or leaks from their vehicles, as animals are attracted to the sweet taste of anti-freeze.

Another common hazard with vehicles is tendency for animals to crawl underneath vehicles, and sometimes into the engine compartment.

"Pet owners should bang on their cars before starting the engine," said Carrie Bledsoe, a veterinary technician with the 436th Force Support Squadron. "The vehicle's fan belt can injure or even kill any hidden animals."

Another issue is sidewalk salt. Many stores now carry pet-friendly salt for de-icing. Pet owners should avoid using regular sidewalk salt, as the salt can be very toxic to animals if ingested. Pet owners should check and wipe off their pet's paws after being outside to help avoid ingesting salt.

Of course, with the temperatures dropping it is also important to keep pets warm.

"Pets with longer coats should not be shaved during the winter," said Bledsoe. "The extra hair provides warmth and insulation. For animals with shorter hair, it may be necessary to use pet-tailored sweaters or jackets to keep them warm if they go outdoors."

If a pet spends a lot of time outdoors, owners should bring them inside during harsh weather, and it is important to provide a warm place to sleep. Cats should be kept indoors during the winter, as they are more likely to get lost or injured. Dogs should be kept indoors if possible, but if they are to remain outdoors, they should have a warm and dry resting place. If you have an outdoor pet, increase the amount of food they are given to ensure they are receiving the proper nutrition to keep their body temperature up.

"Just as in the summer, pets should never be left inside cars by themselves," said Bledsoe. "The inside of a car can actually trap the cold air and can potentially cause an animal to freeze to death."

For more information on pet care, or for questions related to pet safety, call the Dover Air Force Base, Del., veterinary clinic at (302) 677-5253.