While the cold may not seem to bother your dog or cat too much, they are still vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia. Whether your furry family member is spending time in pet day care or playing in the yard, you should protect them from the frigid winter elements. Below are several strategies to keep your pets warm and comfortable throughout the season.

How Can You Keep Pets Safe During Winter?

1. Limit Time Outside

Some cats and dogs love going outside, regardless of the weather conditions. That means it is your responsibility to decide when walks and outdoor playtime are over. Remember that if the chilly weather is bothering you, it’s probably too cold for your pets. Keep outings short and only venture outside for bathroom breaks when the temperature is below freezing.

2. Dry Off After Walks

If your pet enjoys frolicking in the snow, they probably come back wet and shivering. Once you get inside, dry them off with a clean towel to help them warm up. Make sure to wipe off their paws, as the pads are more sensitive to cold than their fur. Deicing chemicals and road salt can also stick to their feet, and the resulting irritation may cause them to lick it off and get sick.

3. Check the Car

Outdoor cats commonly take shelter in warm, enclosed spaces during the winter. Unfortunately, that can include the underside of your car or even the engine. Always check underneath vehicles, especially the wheel wells, before starting the car. Honk your horn to rouse sleeping cats and open the hood to check the area.

4. Provide Warm Shelter

Pets should mostly remain inside during the winter. However, if they prefer to stay outdoors, provide a warm shelter for them. This area should be dry and large enough to lay down comfortably, yet small enough to conserve heat. Insulate the walls and floor with blankets or foam to trap air inside. Also, clean the bedding regularly and leave a steady supply of food and water. Consider placing this structure in a warmer area, such as a shed or covered porch.

If your furry family member needs a warm, safe place to stay while you’re away from home, bring them to Robinwood Kennel in Highland Heights, KY. Owners Joe, Carol, and Peggy strive to create a fun and comfortable pet day care for cats and dogs. This family-owned boarding facility offers a wide range of amenities, including grooming, a spacious exercise yard, an indoor and outdoor run, and kennels. They are just minutes from Northern Kentucky University and 15 minutes from Downtown Cincinnati. Learn more about their services online, or call (859) 781-2352 to ask about pet day care options.