Watch CBS News

Furry Tails: Holiday & Winter Safety Tips For Pet Owners

Baby, it's cold outside.

Yep, that classic holiday song is certainly ringing true in these days just before Christmas. Pittsburgh has turned into a frosty, winter wonderland.

And while your dog might enjoy and fun frolic out in the snow, this cold weather can quickly become just as dangerous for any pet as it is for their people.

The Western Pa. Humane Society is reminding all residents to call in emergency reports to Pittsburgh Animal Control if you see any animal outside or tethered for a long period of time. They can be reached at 412-255-2036.

Also, it's important to keep some safety tips in mind with the holiday season here and the winter chill moving into the city.

The American Veterinary Medical Association has some extremely helpful tips for pet owners for not only the winter weather, but for the holidays as well.

From dangerous foods to pet-friendly decorating tips to a house full of people to leaving your pet for a holiday celebration elsewhere, they leave nothing out.

For more information, visit AVMA.org at these links:

Pet Supplies Plus is also offering some helpful tips to pet owners. There's obvious things - like keeping your furry friend warm to some helpful reminders we may forget - like poisonous winter substances like antifreeze.

Check them all out here:

Keep Your Pet Warm: Don't leave your four-legged friend outside alone. Dogs under 20 pounds and short-coated pets may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater or coat during walks.

Watch for signs of frostbite and injury: Dogs' ears, paws and tails are especially susceptible to frostbite. If your pet plays on ice or hard, frozen dirt, his paws are susceptible to cuts as his paws slide across these rough surfaces. Always wipe your dog's feet after a walk in the snow to remove ice balls and salt deposits from the road. Salt irritates a dog's paws and can be toxic if ingested. Use only pet-safe ice melt.

Clean paws: Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate paw pads — and may even be harmful if ingested. Wipe feet with a damp towel before your dog or cat gets the chance to lick them. Consider paw booties when going on walks for extra warmth and protection.

Feed and hydrate adequately: Be sure to feed and hydrate your pets adequately in the winter. Pets that spend significant time outdoors on walks need more to eat in the winter, since keeping warm depletes energy. Use plastic bowls instead of metal to avoid their tongue getting stuck to the dish.

Beware of the hazards: If you live near water, keep your animals away from ice. If you are outside near frozen water, stay near your pet. Pay extra attention to antifreeze. Dogs love the smell and will drink it if they find any. This is extremely dangerous and will kill your pet.

Check out Pet Supplies Plus website here!
_____________________________________________________

Stay tuned animal lovers for more Furry Tails! You can follow me on Twitter at @HeatherLang24

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.