Shelton, WA - Now that winter cold weather has come to Mason County, bitter cold and wetness can seriously affect your pets.  Mason County Sheriff’s Office Animal Control Officer, Cindy Brewer urges pet owners to take extra precautions during winter weather to ensure the safety of their companion animals.

"Pets rely almost exclusively on their human caregivers for safety and comfort.  That is particularly true during the cold winter months," said Brewer. "Our pets are particularly vulnerable during this frigid weather we are experiencing and with just a few extra precautions you can make sure that they stay safe, warm and healthy."

According to Officer Brewer “Pet owners should keep your dog or cat inside with the family.  Owners should also remember the happiest dogs are those who are taken out for walks and exercise frequently, but kept inside the rest of the time.”

Dogs and cats are social animals who crave human companionship. Your animal companions deserve to live indoors with you and your family.

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Hear are some helpful tips on keeping your pets safe and healthy during the colder months of the year:

 

1. Don't leave dogs outdoors when the temperature drops. Most dogs, and all cats, are safer indoors, except when taken out for exercise.

2. No matter what the temperature, wind chill can threaten a pet's life. A dog or cat is safest and healthiest when kept indoors. If your dog is an outdoor dog, however, he/she must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in his/her body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.

3. Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal.

4. Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them away before starting your engine.

5. The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Wipe the feet with a damp towel before your pet licks them and irritates his/her mouth.

6. Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze out of reach. Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or your family.