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Top 5 Winter Tips for Your Pets

Look at this little guy!  Isn’t he so cute and pathetic?  I almost seem cruel for making him wear an outfit like this, huh?  Well let me tell you, after reading some tips on how to keep my pet safe in the winter, I’m actually doing a GOOD thing by dressing him up like this!!

    

As the weather is starting to get colder, don’t forget to protect your animals too! The little guys and big guys alike need looking after so they aren’t hurting this chilly season.  Here are a few tips for you to take into consideration while looking after your pets.

   

Tip 1:

Keep your cat inside!! This is very important during the winter because outside cats tend to go where it is warm and that may not be the safest place; i.e. under the hood of a car? How would a cat even get here? This obviously poses many dangers to them as they can become seriously injured or killed. Also be sure and clean up any left over antifreeze as it is lethal for dogs and cats!

   

Tip 2:

Never shave your dog down to his/her skin during the winter. It goes without saying that without their coat, they won’t have any warmth on their body. Also make sure that after a bath, your dog is completely dried off before going outside.

   

Tip 3:

Consider clothes for smaller animals. Okay, so to go along with my Bailey (up top); this is actually recommended for small dogs’ with short hair because they get cold so easily. I have even read that putting boots on dogs (regardless of size) may be recommended because their paws get cold and walking on the damp cement can actually hurt them.

   

Tip 4:

Never leave your animal alone in a car. This is not safe. Even though he/she is not specifically outside, they can still freeze to death!

   

Tip 5:

Consider their food consumption. If your animal isn’t getting as much physical exercise as he/she usually does (in the summer months), be sure and reduce the amount of food you give them to avoid any gaining of unnecessary weight.

   

Our pets are apart of our family, so make sure you are keeping them safe and healthy this winter season.  For more information on how to keep your pet safe, visit ASPCA.org or visit ForRent.com to find pet-friendly apartments!

   

Find the Right Dog for your Apartment Living

When thinking about getting a companion for your apartment, make sure you consider all the factors, especially when thinking about purchasing a dog.  Such factors include your lifestyle, your finances and your environment.

                                           

You need to consider your daily schedule before you bring a dog into your home. If you are a very active person and are rarely home, it may not be fair to the dog.  If you have several kids be sure and take into account the additional demands a dog brings. Once you’ve thought about your lifestyle, you can then think of what type of breed would work best (should you still choose to get a dog). Know the potential problems of getting a dog and the specific breed that may work best, before bringing one home. This will eliminate the possibility of it not working out and having to find a new home for your pet.

                                                         

Having a dog is a financial commitment. Similar to having a child, a dog has financial needs that rely solely on you!! They have to go to the vet for shots when they are sick, be fed when they are hungry, and be bathed when they are dirty. On top of the necessary items, there are additional expenses such as daycare (if you chose), toys, training, and the cost of your time. So be sure that you are financially able to care for the dog before you bring him/her home. That too will eliminate the possibility of it not working out and having to get rid of it later.

                                          

And of course, you need to consider your environment. Make sure you live in a pet-friendly apartment community and check if there are any restrictions with animal breeds and sizes. You don’t want to get a medium size dog if your apartment community only allows dogs below a certain weight! On top of the rules inside the apartment community, make sure that the environment you live in has places for you to take your dog. Research if there are any dog parks near by or certain routes best for taking your dog for walks. 

                                        

As a dog owner, a two year old Chihuahua named Bailey, I know the demands on my time and finances he makes, but I also know the true joy I experience by having my little guy. So be certain that you have thought about the factors involved of having a dog, or any animal, before bringing your pet to your apartment! Search for pet-friendly apartments for rent on ForRent.com via our optional search criteria off of the home page.