Protect Your Pet From Windy City Winter!

Tis the season for adorable dog fashion, with jacket-clad pups trundling about and looking cute while they do it. It’s not all good news, however. Chicago cold can be brutal, even for us humans! And to complicate the matter, winter presents some risks that are entirely unique to your pets.

At Oz Animal Hospital, we want to ensure your pets stay cozy and comfortable all winter long. To help them achieve that, we’ve written the blog below, which covers the most common cold-weather risks and what you can do to manage them.

Hypothermia and Frostbite

Just like us, pets can suffer from hypothermia (dangerously low body temperature) and frostbite (freezing of body tissue). Prolonged contact with icy sidewalks, cold winds, and other factors make it tough for some pets to stay warm, even if they’ve got a thick coat.

Symptoms to Watch For:

  • Hypothermia: Shivering, weakness, lethargy, slow breathing, and a weak pulse.
  • Frostbite: Pale, gray, or bluish skin, especially on the ears, tail, and paws. The affected area may feel cold or hard to the touch (some have described the feeling as ‘waxy’).

Treatment and Response:

Both of these issues require immediate veterinary attention. However, you can take some important steps to manage symptoms on the way.

  • Hypothermia: If you suspect hypothermia, gradually warm your pet with blankets and warm (not hot) water bottles.
  • Frostbite: Gently warm the affected area with warm water. Do not rub or massage the area.

Prevention is Key:

  • Limit outdoor time, especially for small, short-haired, or elderly pets.
  • Consider a warm coat or sweater for your pet during walks.
  • Never leave your pet unattended in a car during cold weather.

Paw Pad Injuries

Chicago’s icy sidewalks and roads, often treated with salt and other chemicals, can irritate and injure your pet’s paw pads.

Symptoms to Watch For:

Treatment and Response:

  • Rinse your pet’s paws with warm water after walks to remove salt and chemicals.
  • Apply a pet-safe paw balm or moisturizer to protect and soothe the pads.
  • Consider using booties to protect your pet’s paws during walks.

Antifreeze Poisoning

Antifreeze, commonly used in vehicles during winter, has a sweet taste and aroma. Unfortunately, that can attract animals, and the consequences are dire: antifreeze is highly toxic, and it can be fatal if ingested.

Symptoms to Watch For:

Treatment and Response:

Antifreeze poisoning is a medical emergency. If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze, seek immediate veterinary attention. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) for short-term guidance.

Prevention is Crucial:

  • Clean up any antifreeze spills immediately.
  • Store antifreeze and other chemicals securely out of reach of pets.
  • Consider using pet-safe antifreeze products.

Indoor Hazards

Even indoors, winter presents some unique risks to your pets.

  • Space heaters: Keep space heaters out of reach to prevent burns or fires.
  • Fireplaces: Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks and embers from reaching your pet.
  • Holiday decorations: Keep potentially toxic holiday plants (like poinsettias and mistletoe) and decorations out of reach.

By taking these precautions and staying vigilant, you can help your furry friend enjoy a safe and healthy winter in the Windy City. Remember, if you have any concerns about your pet’s health, don’t hesitate to contact us!

At Oz Animal Hospital, we’re dedicated to providing top-tier veterinary care that goes beyond traditional standards. For exceptional service that prioritizes both your pet’s well-being and your peace of mind, schedule your appointment or contact us today.