TORONTO – Don’t let the fur fool you.
Their coats may help insulate them from the cold, but dogs and cats still need extra protection during the winter.
The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association says assessing how long to let pets stay outdoors should take into account such factors as breed, coat type, general health and age.
Paul Harrison of the Ontario S-P-C-A says it’s important to keep close watch over dogs and cats during the winter.
Harrison says if a dog is kept outside in the backyard, they should have a proper outdoor home.
Their shelter should be well-insulated and raised above the ground with a proper roof to repel the rain.
Urban Dog Walks owner Koryn Greenspan says dog owners should use booties or balms to protect their pets’ paws.
And she says keeping pets locked up in cars in chillier weather is a definite don’t.
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It’s minus 24 up here north of the city. Even though german shepherds are supposed to be hardy dogs, a winter coat hangs by the door for days like these. The dogs go out for a pee and a quick run and back in again. Even the old horses will just get out for a couple of hours this morning and then back in. I sure hope we get an early spring.
I’m a firm believer in keeping the animals indoors in HOT or COLD weather. Take them for walks and enjoy your time with them. They are a true joy. As for booties – no, they are animals. Take them with you when you go out ONLY if you are able to keep them with you AT ALL TIMES. None of this “I was only in the store for 5 minutes” crap!!