Even though it feels like spring right now, we all know that the frost and cold will be back. Let's talk about how to keep your furry friends safe and warm during those cold snaps.
Always make sure that your animals have fresh and unfrozen water available at all times. Horses especially need to have water to drink to avoid colicking.
If you are planning on spending a lot of time outdoors with your dog, it would be a good idea to invest in some dog boots to protect their paws. This is especially pertinent if it is both cold and wet outdoors. Keep an eye on your pet and make sure that they are not spending too much time outdoors when it is cold.
Ears and extremities like paws, tails and chicken feet and combs are very prone to frostbite, especially when the wind is whipping through. Keep an eye out for signs of frostbite which include discoloration of the skin, swelling of the area, tenderness when touched, and oozing or foul smell. If you are worried your pet may have frostbite please contact your veterinarian for more information and treatment.
Make sure that your outdoor animals have a windbreak or shelter available where they can go to get out of the wind. Also be sure to provide bedding that separates the animal from the cold ground such as pet beds, hay, or straw so that they can be insulated from the freezing ground.
If you are calving, kidding, or foaling in this type of weather make sure to regularly check for new babies and make sure that they are getting warm and dry quickly after being born.
Stay warm and safe out there! Until next time,
Milo
