The cold also affects our pets. Cats, dogs, birds, and other pets (and farm animals) need care. Here are tips to keep them healthy in winter:

1. Keep them indoors

   Don’t leave your pets outside for a long time. Cat and dog ears and paws can get frostbite. Don’t allow your cat to walk outside. It can get lost in blowing snow. Caged birds need to be indoors.

   Take shorter walks with your dog. Small breeds like Chihuahuas or Miniature Pinschers should not be taken out in extreme cold.

   Don’t leave pets in the car. They will not be able to breathe in a locked car. If the heater is off, they can get hypothermia or freeze to death. You can leave them for a short time but make sure that they are warm. Get blankets. Leave a window slightly open.

2. Feed them a little more

   They may need more food to keep warm. But don’t give them too much. They will have less exercise. Don’t forget water. Check if their water is not frozen. Get a heated dog bowl if needed.

3. Protect their skin

   • Don’t shave your dog’s hair completely. A thick coat helps keep them warm.
   • If you have a short-haired dog, it will need a sweater or jacket in winter.
   • Don’t bathe them often. They need their natural oils. This will prevent dry skin especially for dogs.
   • Wipe their feet and bellies after walking outside. Wipe away salt and chemicals they picked up from the snow.
   • Keep them dry. Use petroleum jelly or booties to protect their paws.

4. Set a warm and cozy sleeping area

   Put their bed and blanket in a warm place. Cover your bird’s cage at night.

   Put space heaters out of reach for your pets (if you use them). Don’t let them get near radiators and fireplaces. Pets may get too close and get burned.

5. Remove dangerous chemicals

   Check if your car’s radiator is leaking antifreeze. This liquid tastes sweet. Dogs and children will lick it. It is poisonous. Keep them away from the garage. Wash out antifreeze leaks with water to prevent harm.

Watch out for animals seeking warmth:

Outdoor cats and other animals may crawl under the hood of your car. Honk your horn before starting. You can also tap your car’s hood to wake them up.

Inform the owner if you see a pet left out in the cold.

• Call the Winnipeg Humane Society at their Emergency Line – (204) 982-2020 if there’s no owner.
• Call the Animal Care Line (204) 945-8000; Toll free at 1-888-945-8001; or email at animalcare@gov.mb.ca.
• Post on social media: Lost pets in Manitoba/Winnipeg Lost Dog Alert.

Pets like lizards, snakes, or tortoises need specific care. Go to a veterinarian for help.
 
Sources: Keeping your pets warm this winter: Cold weather safety tips, Winnipeg Humane Society; Cold weather safety tips, ASPCA; 15 winter care tips for your dog, Dr. Ashwani Singh, Dogs Naturally; Winter care for pet birds, Ontario SPCA and Humane Society.