Cold Weather Precautions
During winter, our pets, especially small or short-haired dogs, kittens, senior, sick or convalescent pets require more attention to prevent problems caused by improper exposure to low temperatures. In fact, this may cause a significant and sudden drop in body temperature (called hypothermia), sometimes with very serious consequences that involve vital body functions. Generally, animals possess an excellent thermoregulatory ability, which allows them to tolerate variations in temperature. The problem of cooling arises, in case of excessive exposure to low temperatures in subjects, especially long-haired pets that normally live indoors. Because of the heating pets are to stimulated to produce a full winter coat. Being subjected to a sudden thermal shock can cause our pets many problems, which may become serious: complications may result for the respiratory tract, it may cause laryngitis, tracheitis, coughing and bronchitis, while vomiting and/or diarrhea are typical gastrointestinal problems. Furthermore, the pads may develop painful wounds caused by direct contact with snow, ice or an icy surface. To prevent this type of problem it is advisable to gradually accustom your pet to external temperatures: by keeping him in a less heated area of the home, by avoiding the hottest areas before going outside, by using a comfortable pet jacket/sweater that allows ample movement and that keeps him warm, by thoroughly drying him after the walk, especially the legs.