Protect Your Pets

It’s cold outside! This winter put yourself in their shoes or paws.

Each winter, thousands of cats and dogs suffer and shiver in painfully cold weather because thoughtless pet owners won’t bring them inside their homes.

If you can see an animal neglected this way, call the nearest Humane Society or Animal Control Department for help.

Cold weather can pose serious problems for our pets. Our pets have many of the same needs that we do.

Pay extra attention to your pet’s feet during the winter. Snow and ice can become packed between the pads. Wipe your pet’s paws after a jaunt outside and use sand on icy areas instead of salt or chemicals.

Seeking warmth on a cold day, cats can crawl in from underneath your car and rest between the hood and the engine. Remember to honk your horn or knock on the hood before starting your car.

Older animals chill easily. They shouldn’t be left outside for long periods of time.

Make your pet’s bed away from the drafts. Pets may move close to wood stoves, fireplaces or space heaters to keep warm, but can be burned by falling asleep to close to the heat.

Winter is perfect for outdoor frolicking and indoor snuggling with a cat or dog. Help us help all pets and animals a healthy and safe winter.

Towel-dry your pet as soon as he comes inside.

Dress your pet in a sweater or coat when they go outside. This helps retain body heat.

Increase your pet’s supply of food, especially protein.

Keep antifreeze away from your pets since it is a highly poisonous substance.

Karen Ahern
Rehoboth, MA