Winter Hazards To Be Cautious Of
In previous columns, I have warned of potential hazards that accompany specific times of family celebration and these have included both Halloween and Christmas. In this column, I would like to quickly provide some safety warnings common to all pets during the colder months of winter:
1. During the colder months, a routine automotive practice is to use ethylene glycol or antifreeze in your car's radiator or for windshield washer fluid. Antifreeze is extremely toxic to animals, often resulting in kidney failure and death if ingested. Of particular concern is that pets seem to find antifreeze tasty and only a small amount is required to cause irreparable harm so ensure that pets do not have any access to these products by storing them well and carefully disposing of any that are unwanted.
2. Outdoor cats will often look for a warm spot to while away the hours. During the winter months, they may climb under the hood of a car to escape the chill outdoors and to enjoy the heat from a warm engine block after the car has been turned off. However, they may be caught napping and unawares when the car is restarted and subsequently injured by the moving parts of the engine. Therefore, before starting your vehicle, knock on the hood or honk the horn to provide any hidden visitors with ample warning.
3. Heed warnings about cold spells and remember they apply to both us and our pets. Ensure that they are not at risk for exposure or hypothermia by making bathroom breaks short or, if necessary or appropriate, providing them with protective and warm clothing when they are enjoying the outdoors.
4. Finally, for outdoor dogs, please realize that their nutritional requirements are a lot higher and demand special attention during the cold months. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the most appropriate diet to use. Shelter is also extremely important and best satisfied with an insulated doghouse with the entrance facing away from the prevailing wind and just large enough for your dog to lie down comfortably. Also, ensure that any water left out for your pet is checked regularly as it may freeze.
Happy ‘tails' for all in the New Year!
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.
