Though everyone’s favorite meteorologist hasn’t yet weighed in on whether or not we can expect six more weeks of winter, we’re going to say it’s a safe bet that winter coats will remain within reach. Unfortunately, that also means the possibility of inclement weather.
Particularly nasty weather can make life for your pets rough, especially if they are used to getting outside time, and pet-parents might be eager to let their fur-babies out after the rain, snow, or ice has stopped falling. However, there are special considerations to keep in mind.
Deicing the walkway or driveway is a time-honored post-snow storm tradition, particularly for those who don’t want to slide their way to the mailbox. However, many deicing products were not made with pets in mind. Rock salt in particular can be very hard on pets, resulting in discomfort, severe burns, and toxic reactions. These ice melts were designed specifically to “burn” away unwanted ice on lawn and pavement, but if it comes in contact with your pet’s feet, it can lead to serious irritation, causing their skin to dry out, even crack. The product is even harder when ingested—which happens when a dog or cat licks their paws. This can irritate your pet’s stomach. Ingesting a little is bad, but if your dog ingests a lot—say from sampling puddles of melted snow—it can pose a serious health risk, with symptoms ranging from lethargy, weakness, drooling, nausea, vomiting, and seizures. In extreme cases, this can be fatal.
So what’s the good news? PetsWay has you covered when it comes to pet-safe deicing options. Like Safe Paw. Safe Paw is the only 100% salt-free icemelter available; it’s safe for pets, children, surfaces, and the environment itself, lending to its recently being awarded the PTPA Green Product Seal and an appearance in Whole Green Catalog: 1000 Best Things for You and the Earth.
Likewise, Paw Thaw is a deicer that was made with pets in mind. In addition to being better for pets, there is no sticky residue to clean up, and the product will not harm hardwood, carpets, or footwear.
Aside from the hazards of deicing products, the general cold can be an obstacle, as dogs with thin coats are likely to get chilled. When it’s time to take your dog for a walk, consider suiting him up in a dog-sweater for added warmth. You might throw in some doggie booties for extra protection against unavoidable road-salt. If you have an outdoor dog, help him keep snug this winter by ensuring the bedding is warm, well positioned, changed and cleaned frequently. When the temperature gets really low, the best place for your pet is indoors, but if this is not possible be sure to provide extra heating so he says nice and toasty.
Safe Paw, Paw Thaw, and warm-weather accessories can be found at any of Petsway’s five convenient Springfield locations, or our locations in St. Louis, Joplin, and Poplar Bluff. If you have any questions on other ways to keep your pets warm this season, be sure to ask one of our friendly team-members.
Stay warm out there!