It’s only January and it seems like we have spent more than enough time in igloo-worthy weather, at least here in Portland. How long until we can break out the igloo cooler instead and go to a summer picnic? Snow storms are better left in the mountains where you can enjoy the skiing, snowshoeing or take part in other winter sports. When snow mobiles or ATV’s show up in city traffic, you know things have gone wrong, especially if, like me, you live in a city that is practically at sea level. Another down side when snow hits the city is that the supply of hot cocoa at the grocery stores runs out, unless you were luck or smart enough to prepare in advance.
Thank goodness the kitty treats were aplenty at our home when our most recent storm hit, as were Tomato’s special urinary kitty food and Turtle and regular kitty food. Running out of Pet supplies during a crippling snow storm is a disaster waiting to happen. Fortunately the critters were happy inside our house snoozing in a chair or sitting on the back of the couch looking out the window as the last few leaves skittered across the snow crust. The neighbor’s Labrador stuck to the specially packed down areas of snow since the unpacked snow was deeper than he was tall. And the fox terrier duo that usually walks the neighborhood was no where in sight for days.
If your typically indoor Pets are out and about enjoying the snowy weather with you, make sure to keep an eye out that they do not start to shiver. This is a good indication they need to go back inside to thaw out. Those Pets that have thin fur are more susceptible to winter weather than the full-coated ones. But both can get cold, need extra water to hydrate and if they go out frequently, might need more food to replace the energy burned to keep warm in the outdoors.
Salt, de-icing chemicals and other chemicals are easy to pick up on paws. Keep an eye on where your Pets go and wash their paws off so they do not have the opportunity to lick off toxic chemicals once they are back inside.
Pets can also slip and do a version of the splits, pulling muscles or falling on a leg, which can cause a sprain, bad bruise or even a broken bone. If you notice your Pet limping, it is good to get him or her checked out early by a veterinarian so you identify a mild injury from a severe injury that would need additional medical treatment. Here are some winter tips from the Humane Society to help keep your Pets healthy and happy this season.
