Winter Pet Safety: Protecting Shoreline Pets from Cold and Storms

January 18, 2025
By: Adriana Valle

Winter storms are a reality for pet parents everywhere, including the Connecticut Shoreline. Because winter storms can hit at any time, and are expected this week, it’s crucial to focus on your pets’ comfort and well-being during and after the storm system. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you care for your companion animals during and in the aftermath of severe winter weather. Our priority should always be Winter Pet Safety: Protecting Shoreline Pets from Cold and Storms.

Stock Up on Supplies

First and foremost, it’s important to have extra pet supplies on hand at all times in case transportation is interrupted due to storm conditions. This includes:

  • At least five days’ worth of food and water
  • Any necessary medications and supplements
  • Extra blankets and towels
  • Pet-safe ice melt
  • Outerwear and gear like coats, jackets, and sweaters
  • Paw protection balm or booties

dog in snow wearing a winter coat ct shoreline dogsStay Indoors During Extreme Conditions

It’s essential to keep pets indoors during peak storm times and when temperatures are at their lowest. Pets are vulnerable to frostbite and hypothermia, so limit outdoor exposure during extreme cold. If your pet must go outside, supervise them closely and keep bathroom breaks brief. Dry your pet thoroughly after outdoor excursions to prevent chills and skin irritation.

Maintain Proper Indoor Temperature

Monitor your home’s temperature to ensure it remains comfortable for your pets. If you’re cold, chances are your pet is too. Consider using a humidifier to prevent dry air, which can cause respiratory and skin irritation for pets. Remember, different pets have varying tolerances to cold, so adjust your home’s temperature accordingly. Keep an eye on your pet to see if they are trembling and turn up the heat if you notice signs that they are uncomfortable.

cat on couch in blanket ct shoreline petsCreate a Pet-Safe Indoor Environment

In addition to monitoring indoor temps, prepare a cozy, draft-free space for your pet indoors. Consider throwing down a blanket in a warm area of your home to create a comfortable spot for them to rest. Ensure your pet has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from drafts. A soft bed with warm blankets is ideal for keeping your pet comfortable during cold weather.

Use Pet-Safe Deicing Products

When clearing your walkways and driveways, opt for pet-friendly ice melts. Traditional deicing products can irritate your pet’s paws and are harmful if ingested. Redmond’s Ice Slicer is pet and child safe.

After walks, wipe your pet’s paws, legs, and stomach to remove any ice-melting agents they may have come into contact with. There are foaming waterless/no-rinse products that make it easy! While cleaning check paws for signs of cold-weather damage, such as cracked paw pads or redness between toes. Irritated paws can be healed with paw balms like this one.

dog lying on bed with an apple computer in the CT ShorelineAdjust Diet As Needed

Provide fresh, unfrozen water at all times. Consider using a heated water bowl for outdoor pets or using this hack originally used with livestock. Also, adjust your pet’s food intake if necessary, as pets may need more calories to maintain body heat in cold weather while some may need reduced calories because they aren’t getting their usual exercise.

Watch for Signs of Distress

Be vigilant for signs that your pet may be uncomfortable or in distress due to the cold. These can include:

– Whining or barking more than usual
– Shivering
– Appearing anxious
– Reluctance to continue walking or playing outside
– Holding up paws

If you notice any of these signs, bring your pet inside immediately and warm them up gradually. Check their paws and fur for anything that may be causing discomfort.

small dog being brushed old saybrook ctAdditional Safety Measures

  • Keep pets on a leash during walks to prevent them from becoming lost in snowy conditions
  • Be cautious around frozen bodies of water, as pets can fall through thin ice
  • Check under your car before starting the engine, as cats often seek warmth in car engines during cold weather
  • Brush your pet’s coat regularly to stimulate blood circulation and remove any ice, snow, or debris that may have accumulated

Winter Pet Care at Shoreline Happy Paws

At Shoreline Happy Paws, we follow the above tips with our own pets and the pets in our care. We take these important precautions to ensure your pets remain safe, comfortable, and healthy no matter the weather!

We are accepting new dog walking, dog hiking, and cat sitting clients! New Shoreline Happy Paws clients can create an account. We will be in touch to further discuss your needs and set you, your family, and your cat(s) up for success. Existing clients may book services by logging in to your client profile.

Shoreline Happy Paws serves the following areas of the Connecticut Shoreline:

  • Old Saybrook
  • Essex, Ivoryton & Centerbrook
  • Deep River
  • Chester
  • Westbrook
  • Clinton
  • Old Lyme
  • East Lyme
  • Niantic

Certain Parts and Certain Service Hours in:

  • Lyme and Madison
  • Waterford, New London, Groton
  • Uncasville, Gales Ferry, Mystic, Noank

By Adriana Valle

Adriana is the owner and Chief Pet-Loving Officer at Shoreline Happy Paws. She has been a Professional Pet Sitter for over 10 years.

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