If it's too cold for you, it's too cold for them.
Letting your pet stay outside without any shelter to protect them from the elements will set you back about $999 in fines and possibly a year in jail for animal cruelty -- and deservedly so. Just because a dog or cat has a fur coat does not make them impervious to the cold, in fact, they can still be susceptible to hypothermia which can lead to death if left untreated.
You should still take your dog out for bathroom breaks and bursts of exercise during the winter, but only for those two reasons. If for some reason you can't keep your dog indoors and you're wondering whether or not your outdoor shelters are adequate, keep the below tips in mind:
- Make sure the doghouse or hutch is dry and well-sealed from the wind.
- Dogs should be able to move around adequately within the structure, but not have too much room as body heat will escape.
- Keep the structure on a raised platform or on a porch to keep out snow. Lay down a moisture-repellent mat or straw for added warmth and comfort.
- All outdoor dog structures need a door made of durable materials to block the chill.
- Keep food and water in plastic bowls to prevent their tongues from sticking to the metal.
- Give your dog extra food as they burn more calories with the cold.
- Periodically check your dog's water bowl to ensure the water doesn't freeze.
- Put a sweater on short-haired dogs.
If your four-legged friend is of the feline variety, remember that cats that are used to spending time outdoors in the warmer months need to be kept inside.
No matter what season it is, be a responsible pet owner and take good care of them, no matter what it looks like outside.
