Dr. Walt's happy tails: February 2004

Winter pet care tips

As noted in my previous column, many pets truly enjoy being outdoors in the winter. Nothing is more enjoyable than watching our pets frolic in the fresh snow or amusing than seeing how many paws can be held in the air while negotiating for the shallowest passage through a fresh fall of snow! However, the cold can pose some health-related concerns; therefore, some tips to avoid problems include:

• Pay attention to cold weather warnings and weather alerts given by radio or television stations. While generally directed towards people, they apply to animals as well so take heed and modify your outdoor activity accordingly.
  
• Avoid streams or unknown lakes during the winter. Unless tested, ice may appear strong enough to bear your pet's weight, but tragically this is often not the case. Also, some pets still enjoy a swim in the frigid waters but may pay dearly for it if the current carries them under the ice or the cold weather results in hypothermia.
  
• Many pets with longer coats have fur build-up between their toes. This area often accumulates snow and ice making walking uncomfortable. A good idea is for the pet owner or their groomer to trim the coat between the toes regularly. Alternatively, some pets are more comfortable if provided with pet-specific boots.
  
• Antifreeze is a common engine ingredient for the winter season but contains a chemical (ethylene glycol) that can be deadly to your pet, even if only small amounts are ingested. Never leave a container within reach of your pet as the sweet taste is very attractive to both dogs and cats.
  
• While car engine housings leave little room for anything else under the hood, some cats still try and keep warm by climbing up under the hood and onto the car engine. This may lead to disaster if the cat is still under the hood when the engine is turned on. Therefore, it is suggested that a quick thump or two on the hood as you are walking to the driver's door will frighten any unwary cats away before tragedy strikes.

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  About Dr. Walt Ingwersen
  Dr. Walt Ingwersen is Chief Veterinary Officer at PetCare Insurance Brokers Ltd. He is a 1982 graduate of the Ontario Veterinary College. Board certified in Internal Medicine, he has the distinction of being the first Canadian editor of the Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association, a position he currently holds.

  Involved in many aspects of the national and international veterinary community, "Dr. Walt" is the recipient of the President's Award for outstanding contribution to the veterinary profession awarded by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA). He is also Chief Veterinary Officer and Chairman of the Veterinary Advisory Board at PetCare Insurance Brokers Ltd. – Canada's leading provider of insurance for dogs and cats.