• Keep your pets inside.

• Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.

• Keep in mind that during cold weather months, outdoor cats will sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. When the motor is started, the cat can be injured or killed by the fan belt. If you know of strays in your area, take extra precaution when starting your engines.

• Banging loudly on the car hood before starting the engine, this will give the cat a chance to flea.
  When taking your dog for a walk, keep in on leash at all times, especially during a snowstorm—dogs can lose their scent and easily become disoriented.

• After a walk or outing, make sure to wipe off any snow or ice from your dog's legs and stomach. You never know if he may have picked up salt or antifreeze, which he could ingest while licking his paws.

• Remember that longer coats on dogs will provide more warmth for your pet. Short coat dogs may need dog coats or sweaters when going out for walks.

• If bathing your dog, make sure to take extra care to dry him off completely during winter months.

• Older dogs and puppies can be a little more sensitive to the colder temperatures. Make sure to take extra precautions when taking them to go to the bathroom.

• Make sure your pet has a warm place to sleep, away from all drafts.

• A dog or cat bed with a warm blanket or pillow is perfect.

• Make sure to provide plenty of fresh water for your pets. With furnaces running, the air in your home can become very dry, and your pet can get just as dehydrated as they might during the hot summer months.

By taking some extra time to follow these simple precautions, winter can be a safe for the WHOLE family. For more information, please contact Stephanie Woyciesjes, Director of Public Education - CNYSPCA at 315-454-0409.