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Columbia-Greene Humane Society
125 Humane-Society Road
Soft Paws By Aaron Clause Cold Weather Blues The time of year when Old Man Winter comes knocking has returned! Along with his arrival come a number of threats to our furry friends. As it is our duty to protect them from the season’s elements, I’ve provided a few tips to help all of you caring readers to keep your family warm and safe, and avoid the “Cold Weather Blues.” One very important thing: both dogs and cats are vulnerable, and cats perhaps more so because their descent has not naturally included adapting to cold environments. Be aware of all of your pets and their needs, and keep the following things in mind: 1) A doghouse can be a very cold place. To keep your pup warmer, try some hay or straw in the bottom, or a blanket that you don’t mind donating to the cause. A cover, such as a rubber flap (from an old tire, maybe?) over the door, can help to keep in the heat, too! 2) Make sure your pet’s food and water is not frozen! On colder days, fill the water dish with warm water to give your friend a chance to drink before it becomes ice. Watch your pet eat moist food, and remove and reuse the food (making sure it doesn’t spoil in between!) if your dog or cat isn’t hungry – they can’t eat it frozen! Leave dry food out to munch on. 3) Antifreeze and windshield washer fluid are commonly used, and attractive to cats and dogs due to their “sweet” odor. They look like something to drink when water bowls are frozen, and they are EXTREMELY poisonous to your pet!! The chemicals contained in these products cause kidney failure and a painful death. Please use extreme caution when using these substances to make sure that there is no way your pet can ingest them. 4) Wind can cause cold days to be unbearable. On bitterly cold or windy days, bring your pet inside. Hypothermia and frostbite claim thousands of animals each year. Don’t make your friend a statistic. 5) How about a dog sweater? Dogs don’t usually mind, and sweaters add an extra layer of protection when out for that overly-brisk morning walk. If you can get your CAT into a SWEATER, send me a picture – I’ll choose the cutest one on Christmas and send the winner some Pounce treats!! **Note: Outside dwelling pets should not wear sweaters, as they can get tangled in even the smallest bushes and cover, and can freeze stuck right in the sweater! 6) Dogs other than Nordic breeds (Huskies, Malamutes, Akitas, and others with a thick undercoat) may not fare well in cold weather with short fur. Judge your pet’s coat carefully and keep him or her inside accordingly. 7) Make a sheltered area for your pet to eat comfortably, out of falling snow and ice. Other animals may try to feed or drink from your pet’s dishes during a hard winter – watch out for nasty intruders, and make sure your pet has updated vaccines for its protection! If you can utilize these tips, your cat or dog can be much happier and safer in Jack Frost’s domain with your help. Keep in mind that the shelter animals are always in need of blankets, towels, and food to stay warm and healthy in the winter months as well. Your help with donations of any of those items would be greatly appreciated! You can call the Columbia-Greene Humane Society for more information on adoptions, donations, and cold weather tips at (518) 828-6044. Feel free to drop by as well– you can find us on Route 66 one and a quarter miles south of the intersection with Route 9H. Until next time, keep those paws warm!
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