Tips for winter pet safety

Northeast Iowa - As February begins and frigid winter temperatures remain, the Humane Society of Northeast Iowa offers tips to keep cats and dogs safe.

Assistant Animal Care Coordinator and Cat Care CoordinatorBreanne Bolt said, “Pet-safe salt on sidewalks is always a good thing to have on hand. There are too many chemicals and harsh ingredients in the normal ice salt that could make a pet sick or dry out their pads.”

She suggests pet owners check that no ice gets stuck to the fur between their toes.

Bolt said adequate shelter is crucial during the winter months.

“Never leave a pet outside for long periods of time without some type of shelter or a way to get it out of the wet snow and frozen ground,” she said. “Always refer to the news about wind advisories and temperature; if you don't want to be stuck outside your pet doesn't either.”

Bolt said those who notice stray cats on their property might consider making outdoor shelters for them, using a plastic tote, Styrofoam and straw. Blankets should not be used, because they can hold moisture and freeze, causing the shelter to become cold.

For more information on how to build an outdoor cat shelter, visit the website: https://alleycatadvocates.org/communitycat-care-center /creating-winter-shelters/