The winter months can be long and harsh. Give your pets some extra loving care during this frosty time by following some basic veterinarian-approved tips to help you keep your furry friends safe and happy. 

The veterinarians and staff at Westside Veterinary Hospital, conveniently located in Statesboro, GA, are experts in the art of giving animals the best care possible through general small animal medical care, physical examinations and consultations, preventative care and vaccinations, and routine surgery. The doctors and staff of the animal hospital routinely teach pet owners how to best care for their animals throughout every season. 

Tips for Making Your Pet’s Winter Warmer

1. During winter months, it’s best to keep dogs and cats inside. Both humans and animals cannot tolerate subzero temperatures that come along with the elements. If pets must be kept outside, consider providing them with a safe, warm shelter complete with blankets. 
2. If your pet is kept outdoors, provide them with extra food. Outdoor pets burn more energy during the winter months, and thus require more calories. It is also important to make sure water levels are sufficient, and that water has not frozen over. 
3. Avoid a trip to the animal hospital by keeping pets away from antifreeze. Even though it might taste delicious to pets, it is extremely deadly. Avoid housing pets in the garage, be aware of any spills in your driveway, and clean up any leaked antifreeze immediately.
4. Beware of salty sidewalks. Most salt used to treat ice and snow contains calcium chloride, which can be harmful to the pads of dog’s feet. Simple winter booties will go a long way to protect those paws. While you’re at it, keep frost and frostbite off of tails and bodies by covering  your pet’s furry back with a weatherproof winter coat. Your four-legged friend and your veterinarian will thank you. 
5. Be mindful that outdoor cats seek out and sleep in and near heated areas. Cars and car hoods are some of their favorite places to snooze. Avoid a potential trip to the veterinarian by tapping on your car hood before going out for a winter spin around town. 

The veterinarians and staff of Westside Veterinarian Hospital want to help keep pets safe during cold winter months. The comprehensive facility offers emergency veterinarian services, pet grooming, dog boarding, and microchipping, among a host of other services. For more information, visit the hospital’s website or call (912) 489-1998.