With much of Missouri, including the St. Louis area, under extreme winter storm conditions, the Humane Society of Missouri is urging all pet owners to be mindful of the safety of their animals.
Here are some very important tips for pet owners during the dangerous conditions and freezing temperatures.
BRING YOUR PET INSIDE: Do not leave your pet outside in the cold for long periods of time. Wind chill makes the air colder than actual temperature readings. Be attentive to your pet's body temperature and limit time outdoors, especially to prevent frostbite on ears, tail and feet. Always keep your Kitty inside. It's the law in the City of St. Louis. Furthermore, "outside" cats are often the victims of cars, dogs and inhumane people.
PROVIDE ADEQUATE SHELTER: Adequate shelter is mandatory by law. If your dog lives outdoors, you must provide a well-insulated and draft-free doghouse. The opening should face south with a sturdy, flexible covering to prevent icy winds from entering. Keep straw (NOT hay) inside the doghouse. Avoid towels and blankets which can easily dampen and make the space colder.
BEWARE OF ANTIFREEZE AND ROCK SALT: Antifreeze, which often collects on driveways and roadways, is highly poisonous. Although it smells and tastes good to your pet – it is lethal. If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze, contact your veterinarian immediately! Rock salt, used to melt ice on sidewalks, can irritate footpads. Be sure to rinse and dry your pet's feet after being outside.
DRY OFF WET PETS: Towel or blow-dry your pet if he gets wet from rain or snow. It is important to dry and clean his paws to prevent tiny cuts and cracked pads.
PROVIDE PLENTY OF FOOD AND WATER: It takes more energy in the winter to keep body temperature regulated, so your pet needs additional calories if he spends a lot of time outdoors or is a working animal. Also, provide plenty of fresh water. Your pet is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a substitute for water. And, remember that water can freeze if kept in a bowl outside.
CAREFULLY KEEP PETS WARM INSIDE: Keep your pets warm, dry and away from drafts while inside. Tiles and uncarpeted areas might become very cold, so place blankets and pads on floors in these areas. Be careful of supplemental heat sources. Make sure all fireplaces have screens and keep portable heaters out of reach.
GROOM REGULARLY: Your pet needs a well-groomed coat to keep him properly insulated. Short or coarse-haired dogs might get extra cold so consider a sweater or a coat. Long-haired dogs should have their paw hair clipped to ease snow removal and the cleaning of their feet.
STOCK AN EMERGENCY KIT: Pack a 3-7 day supply of the following emergency item in a waterproof container:
- Food, water, bowls, cat litter and litter box, manual can opener
- Current photos and descriptions of your pets should you and your pets become separated. Pets should wear up-to-date identification and have a microchip.
- Medications, medical records and a first aid kit.
- Blankets and towels for bedding and warmth
- Appropriately sized leashes, harnesses and carriers to house or transport
- Pet cleaning supplies – paper towels, trash bags, etc.
IF YOU EVACUATE, PLAN TO TAKE YOUR PETS: The single most important thing you can do to protect your pet is to take them with you if you need to evacuate.
To report an animal in distress, please call the Humane Society of Missouri at (314) 647-4400. For more information on how to care for your pets during the winter months, visit the Humane Society of Missouri website or e-mail info@hsmo.org.
