By AJ Danboise

There’s a common myth floating among some pet owners that it’s okay to leave furry friends outside during colder weather because their fur coats will keep them warm. We’re here to dispel this potentially dangerous myth. Like you, your pet needs a safe, warm place to stay when temperatures are freezing. Imagine having to stay outside for hours-on-end when it’s frigid outside. It doesn’t sound all that fun, does it? Your pet doesn’t like it either. If it’s too cold for you, then it’s likely the same for your furry friend.

Pet Safety Tips for Cold Weather

Cold weather presents numerous dangers to pets. In addition to suffering from chapped paws and itchy skin, if your pet steps on frozen areas containing harmful or lethal chemicals like anti-freeze and later licks it, he or she could become seriously ill or die. Don’t risk that! Follow the ASPCA’s cold weather safety tips for pets to ensure that your friend stays safe and warm this winter.

Electrical Safety Tips for Pets

Before bringing your pet indoors for the winter, make sure your home doesn’t pose any threats. We all know how curious animals are, regardless of whether they’re a cat or dog. Electrical cords, space heaters, lamps, and the like are all playthings to your pet. Make sure to follow these electrical tips on keeping your little friend safe this winter!

  • Once you’ve charged your smart phone, tablet, or laptop, unplug the electrical cord and put it away. Anything that dangles could look like a toy. This goes for kitchen appliances too, such as your blender, mixer, coffee maker, etc. If your pet chews on a cord that is still plugged in, he or she could be electrocuted.
  • Purchase bitter-tasting deterrents to keep your pets from chewing on cords in the first place. These deterrents come in a variety of forms, such as sprays and cord covers.
  • Even if you think your pet wouldn’t attack them, take down any dangling lights. Further, if your pet has a fascination with lamps or light bulbs, make sure he or she doesn’t attack them.
  • For those using a space heater this winter to keep warm, make sure there is a 3-foot guard surrounding it. Never leave your pets alone in a room with a space heater. If it gets knocked over, a fire could occur.
  • If you’re using an electric blanket, keep your pets off it to prevent them from chewing on it.
  • Don’t allow your pet to sleep behind your television or computer, where plugs are kept.

If your pet has been electrocuted, call your local vet emergency center as soon as possible for instructions on how to approach and care for him or her.

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