Surviving the cold: vet clinic offers winter pet care tips

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Shen-Chia Chu
  • 436th AW Public Affairs
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  Pet owners may not be aware of the dangers and challenges their pets may encounter this cold season.

"We want to make sure pet owners are able to help their pets stay safe, healthy and happy during this cold weather season," said Army Capt. Amy Thalacker, officer in-charge of the Dover Veterinary Clinic.

The Dover Veterinary Clinic offers the following advice:

Shivering- This indicates a pet's internal body temperature is dropping, which can result in frostbite or hypothermia. Frostbitten skin is red or gray. Warm the skin gently with warm moist towels or warm water, but do not rub. Contact a veterinarian in the event of severe frostbite.

Outdoors- Limit the amount of play time a pet spends outside. If it is an outdoor pet, be sure to have a shelter that is insulated or heated. A bale of straw makes a warm, comfortable bed for many outdoor pets.

Cats- They love to dwell in a warm and dry place. Check under the hood of your car or honk the horn before starting your car to ensure they are not hiding near the engine of your vehicle.

Snow- Wash your pet's feet off after playing outside and wipe their lips with a warm, wet towel if you suspect they've eaten snow that has been contaminated with snow melting products, check their paws if they are tender, and for reddened lips and tongue.

Water- Frozen water bowls account for a number of pet deaths each year. Without water, an animal's kidneys will shut down and can cause irreversible damage.

Antifreeze- Animals find antifreeze tasty. Keep bottles out of reach and clean up spills. As little as one-half a teaspoon can be toxic to a cat and a quarter-cup can kill a medium-sized dog.