While an episode of extreme cold is sweeping across France and this Tuesday, January 9, 2024 should be the coldest day recorded in the country for more than six years, humans are not the only ones to suffer these temperatures. Here’s how to protect your pets from this cold snap.
If since the start of winter we have been doing pretty well in terms of temperature, since this weekend this is clearly no longer the case. For all those who were impatiently awaiting or dreading the arrival of winter, the real thing is that negative temperatures have been affecting France for several days, reaching their peak on Tuesday January 9. Icy air hitting the country, particularly the north-eastern area, which promises to be harsh with temperatures below 0 and even feelings approaching -10°/-15°C!
But as we reveal the materials to wear to stay warm, we are not the only ones suffering from this cold snap, pets are too! Although we love buying little furs or sweaters to keep our pets warm, with these temperatures it’s far from enough. Dr. Brian Hurley, medical director of a veterinary facility, gives you his five tips for protecting pets from the cold this winter. Let’s go !
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If you’re cold, he’s cold too!
Are you out for a walk with your dog and wondering if he suffers from the cold as much as you do? Know that the answer is simply yes! When temperatures drop below freezing, it is generally advisable to keep pets warm in your home and not leave them outside for long periods of time. If you have no choice and your pet must stay outside, you need to make sure you provide them with adequate shelter! The veterinarian advises insulating the shelter so that the animal can stay safe and escape the outside elements. He also adds that it is possible to install heated kennels as well as heated dog beds so that your pooch stays warm once the temperatures drop.
During his daily walks, make sure he has the right equipment to keep him warm. A small, warm winter coat like what you wear when going out won’t be out of place for your dog. Their fur is not enough to protect them when it is too cold. It’s up to you if you think your dog needs booties, Dr Brian Hurley explains: “They can be useful for protecting from ice, snow and salty areas“. If he doesn’t wear one, the vet advises cleaning your dog’s paws thoroughly once you get home to ensure you remove any salt or chemicals he may have stepped on during his walk.
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Hydration and control
You should know that hydration is just as important in summer as in winter for our pets, even if we tend to neglect it when it is cold. It is important to always have a full bowl at home, but also to take a bottle of water or a travel bowl with you when traveling. If the water bowl is placed outside, it is also important to check that it has not frozen when temperatures are below freezing.
The veterinarian also advises always keeping an eye on the overall health of our animals during the winter. They are just as susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia as humans. To check a pet for frostbite, it is important to pay attention to any skin discoloration, blisters as well as particularly cold skin and dead areas. As for hypothermia, this can be controlled by observing your animal, if it cries, if it shivers, if it is disoriented and has difficulty breathing as well as pale gums, you do not You should not ignore these signs.
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