Winter came early this year and it looks as if it is going to be a cold one. Use these guidelines to make sure he/she stays safe.

• Winter wellness – if your pet has not had a preventative care or wellness exam in the last year, now is the time to do it. Disease can lessen your pet’s ability to regulate body temperature, thus making him/her more susceptible to freezing.
• Know the limits and stay inside – tolerance to cold varies greatly between individuals and breeds. Never leave your pet in a parked car. If your pet stays outside for long periods, provide him a shelter.
• Play dress-up – a dry coat will greatly improve your pet’s resistance to cold.
• Check the paws – wipe the feet after a walk, check the paws for signs of cracking, use a protective cream or better yet get him booties.
• Pet proof the house – Your pet will probably spend more time indoors, so make sure he can’t get into trouble and provide him with a few places to rest cozily.
• Collar and chip – The ice and snow covering the ground may prevent your pet from smelling his way home. A good I.D. collar and microchip will lessen the chances of him getting lost.
• Recognize problems – if your pet slows down, shivers, seems anxious, whines get him indoors quickly, he is in hypothermia. If problems do not resolve quickly get him to your vet.

A pets fur coat is not a guarantee against freezing or frostbite, use common sense, if unsure chose safety – keep him inside.