ST. LOUIS – With low, cold temperatures looming this week in the St. Louis region, keeping your furry friends warm and secured will be another task in mind for owners.
In a press release launched Feb. 17, the Humane Society of Missouri announced safety tips for pet owners to consider amidst this week’s extreme winter weather.
Bring pets inside
First and foremost, bringing in animals during the winter weather is necessary for pets to avoid frostbite and hypothermia. Although pets have fur, their coats are not enough to prevent them from winter ailments.
Provide a cozy space
The Humane Society of Missouri referenced the importance of providing a cozy, welcoming space for your furry friends. Having a comfortable space that is well-insulated, draft-free and sturdy for pets prevents icy winds from entering the area. Having a sufficient shelter is required by law, the society notes.
Press “paws” on pet injuries
Analyzing your animal’s paws is important when checking for signs of cold-weather damage. Some damages to look out for include cracked paw pads, redness between toes, bleeding or even chemicals like rock salt.
Layer up pup
For pets with thin coats or dislike of freezing temperatures, owners can consider buying animal clothing, such as coats or sweaters. The society, however, warns owners to be cautious of keeping clothing material dry, as it can make pets become colder.
Schedule winter wellness exam
Visiting a veterinarian is essential to monitoring your pet’s health. Being persistent toward your animal’s health allows owners to be aware of medical conditions, such as arthritis, which can be worsened due to the cold weather.
The society calls for individuals who see any animal in distress to alert their local police and the Humane Society of Missouri Animal Cruelty at 314-647-4400.
More information on taking care of pets during cooler conditions can be accessed here.