Loading...
Huron Expositor, 2014-01-08, Page 9Wednesday, January 8, 2014 • Huron Expositor 9 Keeping pets warm in chilly weather Whitney South Huron Expositor Well, it's pretty obvious winter has arrived. With subzero temperatures and heaps of snow, people all over Ontario are bracing themselves for a long winter. Taking the appropriate steps to keep warm, as well as making sure you're prepared for any emergency is important, especially during these chilly months. But, what about looking out for our furry friends when the whether turns cold? Dr. Kathleen Day Dunbar of the Seaforth Animal Hospital wants to remind everyone, if it's too cold for you, it's probably too cold for your pet too. "Even pets with lots of hair need shelter, especially from the wind," she told the Expositor via email. "Severe winter weather can affect us all, including the pets who share our lives." According to the Ontario SPCA (OSPCA) website, even if your pets generally stay outside, they still require warm shel- ter and a constant supply of fresh water. Dogs that live out- side need, as a minimum, a dry, draft -free doghouse soundly built of weatherproof materials with the door facing away from prevailing winds. It should be elevated and insulated, with a door flap and bedding of straw or wood shavings. It's always important to check your pet's water frequently to make sure it's not frozen and use a tip -resistant plastic or ceramic bowl, rather than metal, to prevent your dog's tongue sticking to the cold metal surface. Dunbar went on to explain that sometimes pets are even reluctant to go outside to use the bathroom in very cold weather but "holding it" too long can have serious health consequences, especially for cats. "Cats need easy access to a clean litter box, even if they usually go outside in nice weather," she explained, adding it's important to take your pet outside regularly, even though it may be too cold for you. "Put on your coat and go out with your dog at potty time so you can see what they are doing." Some cold weather safety tips from the OSPCA: • Never leave your pet alone in a cold car. Cars hold in the cold, acting like refrigerators, which can cause your pet to freeze to death. • Keep your pets warm. If it's too cold for you to stay out- side, it's too cold for your pet. Although some breeds can withstand colder temperatures, it is important to supply ade- quate housing. Photos by Andy Bader OMI Agency Mitchell Hawks Cup tournament • Keep animals away from puddles. They may contain eth- ylene glycol found in antifreeze, which can be fatal if ingested. • Keep your pets away from bodies of water. With melting ice and rising water levels, lakes can be extremely dangerous for you and your pet. • Wipe your pet's paws and underside after being outside. Salt and ice melt can irritate and burn, and also be fatal if ingested. • Be aware of cats seeking warmth under vehicle hoods. Try knocking on the hood of your car to scare them away before starting the engine. • Don't let your dog off leash especially during a snow- storm. They can easily lose their scent and get lost. • A warm place to sleep. Ensure your pet has a thick, cozy bed or blanket away from any drafts and off the cold floor. • Dress for the weather. Use booties and winter sweaters to help keep your pets warm during outdoor excursions. • Prepare an emergency pet survival kit. You never know when a storm might keep you from being able to leave the house for extended periods. Having an emergency pet sur- vival kit could save a life Quinn Wilson (4) of the Seaforth Novice hockey team celebrates teammate's Noah Robinson's goal during action from the 5th annual Mitchell Hawks Cup tournament last Thursday, Jan. 2. Seaforth downed their hosts 4-1, scoring two goals five -seconds apart in the dying stages of the middle period to win. The two-day tournament concluded Jan. 3. Carnahan G. tiVizatla chnelders I C WAY I.T. GIN DU LO El al Mirc HELL 65 Lari Rd. L -9.34R.0042 vivemoxforlie og.tkr'n Y.WMpsc rit le rE• corn ccidrurrn cLujcurnpocioE 5CREL".1 51:PEEN FTP.1111 RtrAIR covinfro mei WY aia lfl1flWET11 Rump& HOME Ri•KR.16 equi; • ft • CLINTON RADARS 2013-2014 HOME GAMES FRIDAY • JANUARY 10th • 8:30 pm PETROLIA SQUIRES CLINTON RADARS @ CLINTON SPONSORED BY: 4-111 DYKSTRA - glut] CONSTRUCTION OFFICE: 519-482-9082 CELL: 519-525-8675 SSIETIMMEMMILM__ 440 sof' Seaforth Novices' Noah Robinson (5) races Mitchell's Brayden Glauser for the loose puck during some intense game action. •_...7eerryk, Offfe Nikki Wood, Joanne Dale, Colleen Schwindt, Lori Campbell The team at the Drake Dental Office wishes everyone all the best in the New Year We would also like to welcome Nikki Wood to the team.