If you live in a region with wintry weather, it may seem like the time of year that is best spent inside with your dogs or cats. The truth is, there are lots of ways to have fun in winter with your pet. Even in the milder seasons of the Carolinas, the change in weather can be a welcome treat that opens-up possibilities for wintertime fun. Remember that pets are not able to withstand extremely cold conditions for long, so be wary of the temperature.
Try these suggestions for winter fun with your pets:
Enjoy Some Fresh Air
The first way to make the most of winter is to get outside and enjoy the outdoors! It is that simple: plan-ahead and know what you need for outdoor excursions before winter weather hits.
Go for a Wintry Walk
Get in the habit of a wintry walk with your dog or cat. Protect their paw pads with a therapeutic balm to prevent chapping, burning, or discomfort during winter months. Talk to your veterinary provider for recommendations and product suggestions.
Bake Something Tasty
Skip the outdoor adventures and enjoy a tasty treat instead. Take the time to bake some healthy and pet-friendly treats for your dog or cat. Making your own treats can save money, while also providing you control over the ingredients that go in.
Brush-Up on Obedience Training
When the weather is foul and you can’t get outside, make this the time to brush up on obedience skills and training inside. Practice commands and reinforce skills while spending time with your pet and providing them a way to get some exercise.
There are so many ways to have fun with your pets during wintry weather, but remember safety first:
- Keep young puppies and kittens inside and skip the outdoor play during winter months. Being so small, these pets lack sufficient body fat and the full coat needed to withstand cold or wet weather. Keep them warm indoors, instead.
- Always supervise a pet that is wearing apparel, like a sweater or coat. If your pet is wearing clothing that gets wet, their risk of frostbite increases. Furthermore, some pets may struggle to get free of the restrictive garment- which can be a dangerous suffocation risk. Sure, dress them up but keep your eye on them closely.
- Monitor your pet’s paws and pads during winter months, too. Snow and ice can accumulate between toes and cause burns to their sensitive pads. Use balm before and after going outside and consider booties for pets that will cooperate.
While the Carolina winter is not nearly as harsh as other Eastern Seaboard cities, the weather can be unpredictable and there is always a chance that it could snow. Enjoy the wintry conditions with these ideas, but always remember to put safety first. For emergency veterinary care or questions, contact the team at CVETS, a brand new, state of the art Emergency Vet and Surgery center in Columbia, SC.
