Winter Tips for Pets

With cooler weather approaching, many pet owners start to wonder about their pets’ winter care needs. To help clarify the best practices, we contacted Pet Express’s resident vet, Dr. Jessica, to answer some frequently asked questions and share her top tips for keeping pets safe and comfortable during the colder months.

Whether it’s advice on how to keep your pet warm, how to manage outdoor time, or what to watch for when the temperature drops, Dr. Jessica’s expert insights will help ensure your pet is well cared for this winter.

Meet Dr Jessica

Dr. Jessica is Pet Express’ resident veterinarian. As a devoted pet owner herself, she understands the risks that arise when temperatures drop during winter. She has compiled essential tips and recommendations to keep your pets warm, healthy, and happy throughout the cold season.

Whether your pet is indoors or outdoors, exercise remains crucial. Taking the necessary precautions to ensure their health and safety is essential to keeping them active and preventing cold weather dangers. If you’re feeling the cold temperatures, chances are, your furry friend is too.

Importance of exercising your pet in cold weather

Winter activities can vary widely depending on what kind of dog you have, their personality, and the severity of the weather. Most dogs need to get out of the house year-round, even in colder weather. Dogs who enjoy the outdoors and colder temperatures can have just as much exercise in the winter as in the summer. You can shorten your walks for those who don’t enjoy the winter weather as much.

If it is snowy, you must check the bottoms of your dog’s paws. Many longer-haired dogs will have snow clumps between their pads and have trouble walking, so pet owners must keep their pets’ feet clean and debris-free.

Winter pet safety tips

Keeping your pets indoors during harsh weather is generally recommended, as it provides them with a safe and comfortable environment. However, we understand this isn’t always feasible for every pet owner. If your pet must stay outside, there are several effective ways to ensure their safety and comfort, even in the harshest conditions.

Keep your pets warm with winter apparel

Some dogs with thin coats will benefit from a jacket and find freezing temperatures much more enjoyable with the extra insulation. Like humans, pets also require an appropriate winter wardrobe to maintain body heat and comfort, especially in extremely cold weather, such as snowy conditions.

If left outside in more severe winter conditions without adequate shelter, thin-coated dogs can experience cold weather dangers. Monitor for signs of distress, such as trembling, lack of eating, and unusual behavior. If you believe your pet is experiencing the effects of very cold weather, we recommend bringing them inside and taking them to the veterinarian immediately if there is no improvement.

For extra insulation, consider using boots or socks on your pet’s paws, especially in areas prone to snow or icy conditions. These can provide essential protection against cold surfaces and sharp ice. However, some pets may be uncomfortable with the sensation of having foreign objects on their feet, so it’s important to introduce them gradually and observe their reactions. Use your discretion when deciding whether to equip your pet with these accessories, ensuring their comfort and well-being remain a priority.

Does my pet eat more or less during the cold winter weather?

During the winter months, both people and animals tend to be less active, which can lead to a decrease in energy expenditure. As a result, many dog owners find that their pets require less food during this time. However, if you and your dog maintain a high level of activity or if your pet spends a significant amount of time outdoors, you may need to adjust their food intake accordingly.

Increasing their food proportionally to support their energy needs is essential in such cases, ensuring they remain healthy and energized throughout the colder season. Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their diet as necessary to keep them happy and healthy.

Maintaining fresh water for outdoor pets in winter

Fresh water is always necessary, even if your dog isn’t drinking as much as during the hot summer. Ensure your dog’s water bowl isn’t frozen in freezing temperatures. To prevent freezing, you might surround your pet’s water dish with a warm, damp towel, which can provide temporary insulation and help keep the water from freezing. Regularly check the bowl to ensure your pet has access to fresh, unfrozen water at all times.

Depending on your location and the temperatures, some bowls may freeze, leaving your pet without access to water. Some pet stores in colder regions offer insulated or heated water bowls designed to prevent freezing, especially if your dog spends large amounts of time outdoors in the cold air. Regularly check the water level and temperature to ensure it remains accessible and palatable for your dog. Keeping them hydrated is vital for their overall well-being, helping maintain your pet’s health and preventing dehydration-related issues, even in winter.

Pet bedding tips

For pet owners who keep their dogs outdoors, it’s crucial to provide adequate bedding that helps maintain a healthy body temperature, particularly for short-haired dogs that lack sufficient fur for warmth. Ensuring your dog has access to proper outdoor shelter protects them from the elements.

We often recommend using kennels equipped with blankets and cushioning to ensure your outdoor dogs stay comfortable and warm, especially during snowy conditions. Some breeds, such as Huskies, with thick insulation, may handle cold weather better than others. Regardless of breed, providing a warm and safe space is essential for your dog’s well-being.

Keep your pet healthy and happy during the cold weather

Now that you’re familiar with our Pet Express winter pet safety tips, your pet is prepared to face the colder months with minimal discomfort. Your pet can stay warm and healthy throughout the winter by providing proper insulation and cozy bedding and ensuring they always have access to fresh, unfrozen food and water.

With these measures in place, they can exercise comfortably and safely enjoy the outdoors, even in colder conditions. Remember, keeping a close eye on their well-being and making small adjustments to their care can make all the difference in helping them thrive during the winter season.