Worried about your pets in the snow? Here are some tips for keeping them safe this winter

When snow hits Kansas City, it’s important to keep everything, and everyone, safe and secure. This includes your pets. Yes, their fur may give them an extra layer of protection against freezing temperatures, but they get cold, too. Some pets aren’t built to withstand harsh weather conditions, just like humans aren’t.

Here are a few tips to keep your pet extra safe during a winter storm.

KEEP THEM INSIDE

Some of your pets may need to go out for walks and outside to take care of their business, but don’t leave them out for long. They can freeze, become disoriented or worse. If you have to take your pet outside, bring a towel to wipe the salt or other chemicals off their paws or put petroleum jelly on their paw pads before leaving.

You can also put boots and sweaters on your pets if that’s preferred.

FEED YOUR PETS

Pets burn more energy trying to stay warm in the winter. Put a little bit more food in their bowls or sneak them that extra piece of chicken under the dinner table. Make sure they stay hydrated with plenty of water, as that can also keep their skin from drying out.

DON’T SHAVE THEM

A longer coat of hair on your pet will provide them with more warmth as they move around. If you have to shave because it’s getting too long, try to trim them so you can minimize the number of ice balls, salt and ice-melting chemicals that stick to their hair and dry out their skin.

PROVIDE SHELTER

Some cats have a better tolerance for colder weather and would prefer to stay outside, but you can do your part to give them some protection from the winter storm. KC Pet Project suggests this pre-made shelter and has a video showing you how to make a shelter at home.

You can leave food and water by the shelter overnight if you don’t mind the risk of attracting other animals to your home.

If you see a lost pet outside in these weather conditions, contact Animal Services by calling 311 or KC Pet Project at 816-683-1383 and they will rescue them. If your pet was lost during this time, you should fill out KC Pet Project’s Lost Pets form and contact them.

Have any other tips for keeping your pets safe during the winter? Or other questions? Let us know at kcq@kcstar.com

This story was originally published February 1, 2022 at 12:46 PM.