Colder weather is coming

     It seems that we have finally put the brutal heat of the summer behind us for good.  We still are fortunate enough to have some nice temperate days but we all know that colder weather is approaching, and we need to make sure that our pets are as prepared as we are.  If your pet is strictly outdoors, you should ensure that there is a well insulated shelter area for the pet to retreat to in times of cold weather.  For dogs, obviously some form of dog house is ideal.  Cats (as always) are a little more difficult, as they tend to seek their own areas to hide out in, but you can at least provide a small enclosure/hut with bedding in case they use it.  Outside water bowls should always be checked to make sure that the water hasn't frozen over.  Close monitoring of upcoming weather, especially if it is more cold than normal should alert clients that pets may need to be brought indoors or into garages as added protection.  Pet owners should also be extremely careful about access pets have to things in the environment.  Commonly, antifreeze is changed, and as many people know is toxic to pets.  Be sure that there are no other chemical agents around the yard/garage that could pose a health hazard.  If pets are primarily inside, then there aren't as many concerns, but you should remember that our indoor pets aren't as acclimated to cold weather, and should not be left outdoors for lengthy time periods.  Additionally, pets should not be allowed to come into the close vicinity of space heaters or other sources of heat (electric blankets, wood stoves, etc) as thermal burns can easily occur.  If you have questions about the cold weather and your pet, please call our staff for more information.