Keeping Pets Safe During the Winter and Cold Weather

GRANDVILLE, Mich. –– It is undeniably winter in West Michigan. This means snow, wind, and bitter cold air are making it difficult to even go outside for a short amount of time. As hard as it is for us, the same goes for our pets! They may love to play in the snow and make it seem as if they're not affected by the cold weather, but it's your responsibility to ultimately care for them and keep them safe. Take a look at our tips for keeping pets safe during the winter and cold weather, and take any necessary precautions when the temperatures take a dip!

• Keep the Basics Plenty: Pets who spend lots of time outdoors use lots of energy to keep warm. Make sure they have fresh water in a freeze-safe plastic bowl, and have eaten enough food. A little more food than normal during the winter months can help with the energy deficiency. 
• Protect Paws Before and After Going Outside: Pets going outdoors, even if it is a short walk, can be affected by the salt and ice on their paws. Using petroleum jelly or another type of pet-safe moisturizer will help protect their pads before going out. It's also a good idea to wipe paw pads with a damp towel to rid them of salt that can dry them out and irritate the pets mouth if they lick them. Pay attention to in-between the toes and remove any snow clumps or salt. You might consider boots sold at pet stores if temperatures or ice conditions are bad. Your pets might have trouble with boots at first (see the funny video below), but they'll get used to them. Make sure to also keep your pet from licking or eating any road salt, which can cause excess water consumption and vomiting. 

• Avoid Bathing if Possible: If you can get away without a bath, do so to let the essential oils do their job. Just like us, pets will get dry, flaky skin because of the cold which can be irritating and itchy. Running a humidifier inside your home will help. If you do need to bathe them, use a good moisturizing shampoo and conditioner. 
• Keep Them Inside: If it's too cold outside for you, it's too cold for your pets. Your pets are happiest and the safest inside on unbearably cold days. It's also a good idea to provide a warm blanket and pillow or bedding so they can keep warm during their downtime inside. You can make them even more comfortable, and help their dry skin, by running a humidifier throughout the day - this is a good thing to do for the humans in your home, too! 

We love our pets like family, so we treat them like family! There are plenty of things you can do together during the cold weather that'll keep your pets healthy and active. Let them try their paws at a puzzle toy, train them on new or old tricks, and play their favorite game (like fetch or tug) indoors when you can. Make sure to keep pets safe during the winter and cold weather by following the tips listed above. Just as a reminder, never leave your pup(s) in the car for long in any extreme temperatures.

You can keep your family safe in the winter, too with a Honda like the CR-V or the brand new 2018 Honda Accord that comes standard with the most advanced suite of safety features, Honda Sending,  It's no secret Honda is one of the most awarded brands on the market. If a new Honda isn't in your budget we have plenty of safe and winter friendly options in our used inventory we'd love to show you.

Give RiverTown Honda a call at (877) 236-9113, or visit us at 4260 Kenowa Ave. Grandville, MI 49418, one mile west of RiverTown Mall.

Visit Us Online: RiverTownHonda.com

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