Deer Park Veterinary Hospital


Winter Pet Care Tips and Toxicities

 
  • Snow removal salt
    • Be sure to remove salt from your pet's paws immediately.
    • Some substances have low to moderate toxicity, depending on the ingredients and amount ingested.
    • Read the label and take neccessary precautions.
    • Store in tight containers out of pet's/children's reach.
  • Antifreeze
    • Even a small amount of antifreeze can be fatal.
    • Read all warnings and labels carefully.
    • Thoroughly clean up spills, and keep containers closed tightly and out of reach.
  • Napping Cats
    • Cats sometimes climb onto vehicle engines for warmth.
    • Before starting your vehicle knock on the hood and honk the horn.
  • Food/Water
    • Staying warm required\s extra calories so feed your pet accordingly when the temperature drops.
    • Always have fresh, clean, and unfrozen water available.
  • Indoor Pet Housing
    • Keep bed/crate kept in a warm, draft free area (preferably off the floor).
  • Outdoor Pet Housing
    • Warm, insulated pet house or shelter
    • Keep elevated to avoid accumulating moisture.
    • Provide a door to keep out the cold winter winds.
    • If in a pen, use bales of hay to block out the wind, and cover the top.
    • If the wind chill or other weather conditions become severe, bring your pet inside.
  • Frostbite
    • Remove ice and snow from your pets paws immediately.
    • Skin may turn reddish, white, or grey, and may be scaly.
    • If you suspect frostbite immediately take your pet to a warm area and thaw by applying warm, moist towels that are changed frequently. Continue until infected area becomes flushed. Contact your Veterinarian as soon as possible so he/she can evaluate to seriousness of the condition.
  • Special Holiday Tips
    • Increased activity and visitors during the holidays can upset your pet's routine. Try to keep your pet oh his/her regular schedule for feeding and exercise and be sure he/she gets plenty of water.
    • If planning on taking your pet with you to visit relatives or friends make sure your pet is welcome. Because of excitement during the holiday season, you might consider boarding your pet or hiring a pet sitter.
    • Never place ribbons or yarn around your pet's neck, and do not allow your pet to play with plastic/foil wrappings or six-pack beverage holders.
    • Cover or tack down electrical cords
    • many holiday treats can be harmful or toxic to pets so keep your pet on his/her regular diet and caution visitors against giving your pet "special treats."
  • Some holiday toxicities include: holly, mistle toe, fire salts, poinsettia leaves and stem, juniper, cedar, pine, and fir greenery, and Christmas tree preservation solution.