As the nights get colder and longer, it’s essential to keep your pet warm during the coldest months of the year. If you haven’t done so yet, here are a few basic changes to make to your pet’s life right now!
Keep your pet warm by reconsidering where they sleep
You wouldn’t sleep outside in the cold, so why would your pets want to? Let your pets sleep inside the house in the safety of a warm room away from any drafts. If bringing your pets indoors during the winter isn’t an option, you need to ensure their kennels are waterproof and slightly elevated to protect them against the elements. Seal any gaps in the kennel to ensure optimal warmth and comfort. You can also invest in some warm and cuddly blankets to add extra warmth to their kennel.
Cozy up their beds
The shorter his (or her) coat and the smaller your dog, the more effort you’ll need to put into ensuring you keep your pet warm and protected from the cold. Make sure your pet’s bed is warm and that you’ve got the right kind of bed. If you’ve got cats, a cave-type bed is better since these pets need more heat to stay warm. You also want to ensure they’ve got a blankie to snuggle up under, so aim for at least two blankets per pet.
Reconsider your dog’s diet
If your dog spends a lot of time outdoors during the winter, he’s burning more calories to stay warm. This means your dog needs more food in winter than summer. On the other hand, dogs that spend more time indoors during the winter might need less food now since they’re exercising less.
Change the grooming routine to keep your pet warm
If your dog has a long cut, it’s pretty obvious that a summer cut isn’t suitable for the winter months. Dogs need their coats to stay protected against the colder temperatures. A winter trim is all you should be aiming for during the months of May through August.
Consider investing in dog jerseys
Dog jerseys are a great way to keep small pets warm when it’s cold outside, especially if they have short coats. Keep in mind that not all dogs are okay with restrictive “human” clothing, so never force the issue if Fido isn’t keen.
Protect the cages
If you’ve got pet birds, hamsters, rats or chinchillas, you should offer them protection against the cold too. Start by moving their cage to a warmer room, away from any drafts, and cover their cages at night to help them stay warm.
It’s you’re responsibility as a pet owner to ensure you keep your pet warm during the winter months. If you haven’t done so yet, it’s essential to stock up on goodies and gear that your pet might need during the colder months to ensure they’re as warm and cozy as can be this winter.
