It’s that time of year again, when we officially pack away shorts and tank tops to make room for sweaters, scarves and jackets. Did you know that as colder weather approaches, there are certain precautions you should take to ensure that your pet remains safe and healthy during the winter months? Here are some tips from your Snohomish vet to help your pet weather the winter safely. Keep Kitty Indoors – Some cats insist on going outside, but during the colder months, it’s important that you limit the amount of time you allow your kitty to roam outdoors. Risk of hypothermia and frostbite are real and there are a number of other hazards that are related to winter weather, so take the appropriate measures to help keep your outdoor cat warm and safe as much as possible. Keep Pets Leashed During Outings – The potential hazards your pet could face if he or she becomes lost are much greater during the winter months, so be sure to always keep your animal companion securely leashed whenever you go outdoors. You may also want to talk to your Snohomish vet about microchipping, just in case. Wipe Your Pets Down – Whenever your pet comes in from outside, particularly when it’s snowing or raining, you should wipe them down to both dry and warm their body. Don’t forget the paws, which may have excess snow or ice on them, or may have come in contact with dangerous chemicals like anti-freeze or ice-melting substances. Feed a Healthy Diet – Your pet’s body performs differently during the cooler months, so make sure that you’re supplying a healthy diet, particularly if your pet is very active outdoors. If you’re not sure what your pet’s specific needs might be, your Snohomish vet can give you some guidance. Practice Vehicle Safety – You should never leave your pet unattended in your vehicle, even if it’s for a short period of time. Colder temperatures can negatively affect your animal companion’s body, and cars can hold in that cold air, turning them into virtual freezers. Pay Special Attention to Older Pets – Just as with people, as animals age they become more susceptible to certain painful medical conditions, such as arthritis, and colder weather can aggravate these conditions. Keep a close eye on your older pet and talk to your Snohomish vet if you notice any signs that your animal companion may be experiencing discomfort or pain. The winter can be a fun time for both you and your pet, but it’s important that you take into account the changes in temperature and weather to ensure your animal companion’s safety at all times. By following these tips and working with your Snohomish vet, you and your pet can both enjoy the winter months happy, healthy, and without incident.