As the days get shorter and the weather colder there are a few things you should keep in mind about caring for your pets. 

  • Water bowls should be checked often to make sure the water is not frozen.
  • If indoors, pets should have bedding off of cold floors and away from drafts.
  • If outdoors, pets should have dry shelter out of the wind.  If weather gets too severe, be sure to bring pets indoors.
  • Be sure to remove ice, snow, and mud from your pets fur as soon as possible. If there is any signs of frostbite be sure to talk to your vet right away.
  • Staying warm means extra calories.  Pets may need extra food this chilly time of year.

Entering these holiday seasons be sure to watch out for a few things that your pets may get into while your not looking.

  • Cats and kittens have a dangerous habit of taking naps on top of warm automobile engines.  Be sure to honk the horn, or check under the hood before starting up your vehicles.
  • Be sure to keep antifreeze out of reach of pets.  It is sweet and smells very good to pets, and even small amounts may be harmful. Clean up spills and store your antifreeze in a safe location.
  • The holidays don’t always just pack on the pounds for humans, pet owners feel extra generous this time of year, sneaking their pets human food.  While your pets may love your extra bit of kindness, they’re bodies will not thank you.
  • Many holiday plants can be toxic to your pets.  For a list of plants poisonous to pets, click here.
  • Some holiday decorations can also be harmful to your plants. Things like electric cords, tinsel, glass ornaments, candles, spray on-snow (some are non-toxic-read the label), ribbons, plastic or foil wrapping may not be good.

Great Triangle Homes - The Shuping Advantage Team is a proud supporter of both the Animal Protection Society of Durham and the Orange County Animal Protection Society.

Visit our website to see how you too can support these wonderful organizations!