Winter Pet Woes

Its cold outside keep your pet warm by keeping them indoors.
Keep outside pets sheltered with warm bedding and a insulated shelter and access to unfrozen water.
Feed your pets some extra calories especially if they are outside a majority of the time.
Check paws, ears and tails daily to make sure no signs of frost bite.
If its a blizzard please just bring your pets inside or at the very lease a insulated barn of sorts.
Watch out for salt and other de-icers. If suspected always wash off immediately.
Check your car and make sure no stray animals are under or in your car.
If you have a short hair pet consider a doggy coat maybe?
Booties are always a good idea to avoid snow and ice incrusted paws.
Shovel snow and make paths for you and your pets.
Give your pet the gift of a warm place to sleep and lots of cuddles :)

It's windy out there! Be safe!

Keep your pet close and on a leash if outside.
If a hurricane or tornado is imminent keep away from windows.
Stay inside or seek shelter if the winds get to gusty.
Listen to the news or radio to know weather patterns and preplan outings.

Keep your pets and kids safe during a storm

Deafening booms of thunder and blinding flashes of lightning can often feel like a scene straight out of a scary movie for your kids and pets. Even wind that causes a branch to tap against a window can instill fear in those who aren’t able to understand the ways of Mother Nature! To avoid the panic and fright brought on by this year’s storm season, check out these tips to help make your kids and pets feel safe.

KIDS

• Implement a safety plan for weather emergencies that everyone is familiar with. Have a cozy space picked out with the emergency supply kit there.
• Limit TV and scary movies. Avoid news coverage as they will always show the most severe storm damage.
• Remain calm. Your children will follow your lead, so let them know that you feel safe.
• Make a game out of it. For example, a player could "get points" each time there is thunder.

PETS

• Practice positive reinforcement, to encourage your pet to not act out.
• Play calming music to drown out the thunder claps.
• Keep the pet with you.
• Provide a safe indoor area, such as a crate, but leave the door open so the pet doesn't feel trapped.

BOTH

• Provide distractions. Create a “storm fun kit” that you bring out only during storms. Include human and pet games, snacks/treats, flashlights, etc.
• Cover windows so that neither kids nor pets can see the turmoil outside.

Be calm and control your dog. Doggy etiquette.

Leash train your dog.
 Do not allow your dog to jump on people.
Always supervise your dog especially around children and other animals.
Do not let your dog injure or kill neighbors livestock or pets.
Don't assume your dog and another dog will be friendly to one another.
Never allow aggression especially when playing or feeding.
Pick up after your dog I.e their poo please.
Keep you dog up to date on vaccinations. Do not bring a sick dog to places other dogs will be.
Make sure you have a secure fence or kennel area for your dog when left alone.
Do not let your pet run loose in public areas other the dog parks and even then remain in control of your dog.
Make sure your dog knows "recall" and "stay".

It's hot outside..

Tips and tricks to keep your pets happy and healthy during the summer months.
Make sure water is available at all times.
Wading pools are a good way to keep cool.
Some ice cubes or frozen treats are always a cool delight.
Fans, open windows, air conditions anything that creates air flow is awesome.
Long fur? How about a hair cut?
Please no car rides that result in sitting in the hot sun for any period of time.
Stay clear from hot asphalt and cement, does not do your pets poor feet any good. Maybe booties?
Fleas and ticks maybe rampant so keep your pet parasite free with flea/tick treatment and prevention. Contact a local veterinarian.
Also if your in a area known for mosquitos watch out for heartworm, treat and prevent if needed. Contact a local veterinarian.
Keep your pets vaccinations updated to prevent spread of disease. Contact your local veterinarian.
Know the signs of heat stroke and heat exhaustion. Ask your veterinarian.
Have fun and be safe this summer with your pets.