❄️ Winter Prep for You and Your Pets

When the weather turns cold, it’s important to make sure both you and your pets are ready to stay cozy, safe, and healthy. Here’s a checklist of winter prep tasks to help everyone (two-legged and four-legged!) enjoy the season stress-free:

🐕Stock up on pet-safe ice melt to protect paws on walks.

🛒Get extra pet food, treats, and medications in case of snowstorms or supply delays.

🧥Invest in sweaters or coats for pets who tolerate clothing, like small dogs or seniors.

🔥Inspect heating sources (heaters, fireplaces) to ensure they are pet-safe and won’t cause burns.

🧰Create a winter emergency kit with essentials like water, pet food, blankets, and a flashlight.

✂️Trim fur around paws to prevent ice balls from forming between toes.

🐕‍🦺Use paw balm to protect against cracking and salt burns from icy sidewalks.

🚗Review your vehicle emergency kit to include pet items if you travel with them.

🏠Plan indoor exercise options for days when it’s too cold to walk outside.

🌿Move toxic winter plants (like poinsettias) out of reach from curious noses.

💡Use reflective gear or LED collars for darker morning and evening walks.

🚿Wash and dry coats and leashes more often to avoid salt and chemical buildup.

💧Offer extra hydration since dry winter air can be dehydrating for both humans and pets.

🛏️Rotate and fluff bedding often to keep it warm and comfortable.

🏷️Check and update pet ID tags and microchip info in case of emergencies.

No matter how wild winter gets, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping everyone safe, happy, and warm. Stay safe, stay warm, don’t forget to stock up on extra treats (for you and them) and remember: if your pet steals your blanket, it’s just their way of saying they love you. Probably. ❄️🐾