The Gerard and Fien storms have hit Spain with a winter storm that is accompanied by a mass of arctic polar air, cold, strong gusts of wind and heavy snowfall.
Although humans can put on a few more layers of clothing, we must not forget to protect our pets from the cold. Because the photos and videos of our dogs playing in the snow are adorable, but we must exercise extreme caution if we do not want our pet to suffer consequences from this adverse weather.
First of all, you have to limit and shorten the walks as much as possible. Yes, snow is fun for dogs, but it carries many dangers. In addition to getting cold because of the cold, the contact of snow and ice with their pads can cause burns, wounds or cracks. They can also become irritated as a result of the salt that is thrown into the streets to defrost them.
If you are going for a long walk, try putting on special dog shoes –if allowed– and, when you return home, clean its legs and belly to remove the salt and dry it very well. Next, apply a special repairing balm for dog pads.
Although some dogs tolerate low temperatures well, others show less tolerance. This is the case of dogs of small breeds, short hair, puppies, elderly dogs or dogs with some disease. So in these cases it is necessary to equip them with a warm garment. Do not dress it up or choose it for aesthetic purposes, but it must protect it from the cold by being warm and fluffy, but also waterproof to isolate it from snow, rain and reduce the impact of the wind.
However, do not wear it to be at home, as this would aggravate the temperature contrast with the outside. In the case of cold dogs, you can cover it with a blanket or move its bed closer to a heat source such as the radiator. If your dog usually sleeps outdoors, if possible, bring him into the house and, if not, make sure that he has a house where he can shelter with a warm bed and a blanket.
On the street, avoid eating snow as much as possible, as it may contain salt or antifreeze, which are toxic to dogs. The consequences can range from vomiting and diarrhea to getting sick. Do not hesitate to go to the vet if he shows any symptoms of feeling unwell.
As a general rule, domestic cats tend to be more homely and do not need daily walks like dogs. But some kitties like excursions abroad.
Try to avoid this while the storm lasts by entertaining him indoors and placing his bed near the radiator to keep him warm. If there is no choice but to let him out, she tries to put him in a warm garment and dry him very well when he returns.
