Winter Pet Hazards

The shorter days and long cold nights of winter are here, bringing special hazards to pets. Hypothermia and frostbite can happen quickly to animals left outside at night. Please bring dogs and cats inside at night. If they must be left out during the day, make sure they have access to a well-insulated shelter and unfrozen water—pet stores sell heated water bowls for just this purpose. Also, beware of antifreeze leaks—it is highly attractive to all animals and just a teaspoon or two can be lethal. Remember too that cats like to sleep under the hoods of cars in the winter. Bang on the hood before starting the engine to give your cat a chance to escape and avoid injury. Lastly, don’t use rodenticides if at all possible. Many pets are poisoned every year from well-intentioned owners who place the toxic product in areas that they think pets cannot access. If you suspect your pet has ingested a rodenticide, bring your pet and the package to your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately for treatment.