What is fireworks trauma in pets?

Dogs can hear more than twice as many frequencies and can hear sounds four times further away compared within humans. That the booming sounds of fireworks elicit a fear or anxiety response in pets is no surprise. Like people, a pet’s genetic makeup and their life experiences contribute to their response to certain noises and the way they deal with fear and anxiety. For example, pets with a history of abuse or neglect are likely more easily spooked. Noise aversion typically worsens over time and pets who do not receive treatment will become increasingly stressed rather than learning to ignore non-threatening sounds like fireworks or thunderstorms. Dogs are most at risk for noise aversion reactions although cats may also respond to specific noises with anxiety. Noise aversion is defined as an anxious or fearful response to a specific noise and fireworks are one of the most common triggers. Pets with noise aversions may respond by hiding and many pets may become confused about the direction of the sounds and react by looking for an escape route. Their fight-or-flight response puts them at risk for becoming lost or being injured when they jump through windows or run into the street in front of moving cars. 

Fireworks trauma signs in pets

Fireworks trauma signs are variable and may mimic signs of other underlying medical problems. Traumatic injuries such as broken bones after being hit by a car or soft tissue wounds from jumping through a closed window may also occur. Fireworks anxiety signs may include:

• Pacing
• Trembling
• Panting
• Drooling 
• Yawning
• Inappropriate urination or defecation
• Holding their tail between the legs
• Increased water consumption
• Vocalizing
• Pawing or climbing on people
• Nuzzling 
• Hiding behind furniture or in a closet
• Unpredictable, sudden, or destructive behaviors such as escaping or jumping through glass windows or doors

Fireworks trauma diagnosis and treatment in pets  

Bring your pet for immediate veterinary care if they are injured as a result of their fireworks noise aversion. Pets who show anxiety signs should also receive a veterinary examination since signs may mimic other underlying medical problems. Your veterinarian may recommend a complete blood count and a serum biochemistry test to check for overall organ health. Pets who have a traumatic injury may require an X-ray to look for broken bones or other injuries as well as treatments to address any pain or shock.  

Once underlying medical problems have been ruled out your veterinarian will discuss methods to prevent firework anxiety or other noise aversion problems. Treatments may include:

• Pheromone sprays such as Adaptil or Feliway to promote a sense of well-being
• Calming supplements or diets
• Short-term sedatives 
• Medications to increase their serotonin levels—although similar to human prescription medications, never give your pet any medication unless prescribed by your veterinarian
• Referral to a veterinary behaviorist or a training program that includes desensitization and counterconditioning
• Anxiety vest or thundershirt which provides gentle pressure around your pet’s torso to help decrease stress

Financial options for pets undergoing fireworks trauma treatment

Pets who are injured as a response to their fireworks anxiety may require an extended hospital stay, especially if they are hit by a car or suffer other traumatic injuries. Pets who have a noise aversion may require several veterinary checkups to adjust medications or treatment protocols. Therefore treating a noise averse pet can lead to a large veterinary bill, but a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion will ensure funds are available for such emergency treatments and long-term care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other financial options available to cover treatment costs include Care Credit, Scratch Pay, pet health savings accounts, and short-term loans. 

Firework trauma prevention in pets  

Discuss options with your veterinarian in the months or weeks before Independence Day if your pet has a noise aversion history. Ensure that your pet’s microchip is functioning and the registration has up-to-date contact information should your pet go missing. Other prevention tips include:

• Schedule your pet’s meal and bathroom breaks so they are not during peak fireworks times.
• Don’t bring an anxious pet to a fireworks celebration.
• Always have your pet on a leash, including in your fenced-in backyard, if bathroom breaks are needed after dark.
• Designate a quiet safe space such as a crate or back of a closet as your pet’s retreat during fireworks displays. 
• Provide your pet their favorite toy and treats during the fireworks to encourage a positive association with the noise. 

Diagnosing and treating noise aversion in pets requires patience and time to desensitize them and address their anxiety. Bring your pet to your family veterinarian to discuss options for treating their noise aversion. Immediately bring your pet to Animal Emergency Care if they are injured as a result of their anxiety, if it is after hours, or call your family veterinarian. #AECprevents 

Sources:
https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952947

https://fearfreepets.com/noise-aversion-in-dogs/

https://www.petmd.com/dog/8-tips-helping-dogs-thats-scared-fireworks

The post Silence Is Golden: Understanding Fireworks Trauma in Pets  appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

What is alcohol toxicity in pets? 

Alcohol toxicity is a common pet poisoning that can occur from ingestion, skin absorption, or inhalation of alcohol or alcohol-containing products. Dogs and cats of any sex or age are at risk however kittens and puppies have an increased risk because of their small size and undeveloped organ systems. Alcohol poisoning primarily affects a pet’s gastrointestinal (GI) system, respiratory system, central nervous system, and heart. Other organ systems including the liver and kidneys also may be affected. Pets who have severe poisoning are at risk for death. The most common sources of pet alcohol poisoning include: 

• Ethanol — Common sources of ethanol include alcoholic drinks, desserts flavored with alcohol, fermented fruits, unbaked yeast dough, some liquid medications, and mouth washes. 
• Methanol — The most common sources of methanol include windshield fluids, some gasoline additives, and some paint solvents. 
• Isopropanol — This alcohol has twice the potency of ethanol or methanol. Common sources include 70 percent rubbing alcohol, hand sanitizer, glass cleaners, perfumes or colognes, detergents, antifreeze, and some grooming products or flea sprays. 

Alcohol toxicity signs in pets

Signs of alcohol toxicity vary in severity and are dependent on the type of alcohol ingested, the amount, and the pet’s size. It may take some time for signs of toxicity to appear depending on whether a pet has eaten recently or not. Alcohol toxicity signs may include:

• Staggering 
• Lack of coordination
• Excitement
• Excess drooling
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Increased thirst and frequency of urination 
• Depression
• Lethargy
• Difficulty breathing
• Low body temperature
• Abnormal heart rhythm
• Seizures
• Coma 

Alcohol toxicity diagnosis and treatment in pets

You must bring your pet in for immediate veterinary care if you observe them ingesting or being exposed to alcohol because some pets will not show immediate signs of poisoning. An alcohol toxicity diagnosis is based on a pet’s history of ingestion or contact with alcohol and clinical signs. Your veterinarian may induce your pet to vomit if the ingestion has occurred recently, but you should never induce vomiting unless directed to do so by a veterinarian. Alcohol can lead to dehydration, electrolyte abnormalities, liver and kidney problems, and low blood sugar. Your veterinarian may recommend blood work to monitor your pet’s overall organ health. Poisoned pets likely will require an extended hospital stay for emergency care, treatment, and continued observation which may include: 

• Heart rate and blood pressure monitoring
• Body temperature monitoring and regulation with specialized warming pads
• Oxygen therapy
• Intravenous (IV) fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
• IV dextrose for low blood sugar
• Liver-protecting medications
• Anti-nausea medication
• Gastroprotectant medication
• Anti-seizure medication

Financial planning for treatment of alcohol toxicity in pets

Pets being treated for severe alcohol toxicity often require an extended hospital stay and several checkups which can result in a large veterinary bill. Pet health insurance like Trupanion will ensure you can cover the costs of your pet’s emergency care for an accidental poisoning. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. Other available payment options include:

• Care Credit
• Scratch Pay
• Pet health savings accounts
• Short-term loans

Alcohol toxicity prevention in pets

Keeping any alcoholic beverages or products containing alcohol out of your pet’s reach is the best way to prevent them from being accidentally poisoned. Never feed your pet any desserts or drinks that contain alcohol because even a small amount can be dangerous. Other prevention tips include:

• Keeping your pet out of the kitchen when handling raw yeast dough
• Placing a pet-proof lid on all garbage cans to prevent contact or ingestion of alcohol-containing products 
• Storing all household products with alcohol in a pet-proof location
• Quickly cleaning up any spilled alcoholic drinks or products
• Consulting with your veterinarian before spraying any alcohol-based grooming or flea products on your pet 

If you suspect your pet has ingested alcohol or if they are showing alcohol toxicity signs immediately bring them to Animal Emergency Care if it is after hours, or call your family veterinarian. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/poison/alcohol

https://veterinarypartner.vin.com/default.aspx?pid=19239&id=4952310

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/household-hazards/alcohols

The post Pet Poison Prevention: Understanding Alcohol Toxicity in Pets appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: Use caution with holiday decor around pets 

Festive decor, Christmas trees, dangling ornaments, and candles can transform your home into a magical but potentially dangerous winter wonderland. Take precautions when adorning your home with the following:

• Christmas trees — Many pets will want to investigate the new smells and tree branches so ensure they can’t tip the tree over and possibly injure themselves by securing it to a ceiling or doorway with fishing line. In addition, never use water additives in the tree stand. Pets can mistake tree water for their personal water dish, and drinking additive-laden water can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
• Ornaments — Place all fragile ornaments such as glass balls and food-based decorations high on the tree to prevent mischievous pets from injuring their paws on broken ornaments or ingesting dangerous ingredients. 
• Tinsel —Tinsel and ribbon are common culprits in many feline holiday emergencies, leading to intestinal blockages that often require surgical removal. Ensure you place all tinsel and decorative ribbons out of paw’s reach. 
• Candles and potpourri — Place lighted candles far out of reach of swatting paws or wagging tails to prevent burned fur or house fires. Avoid using scented candles or potpourri that contains essential oils because they can be toxic to pets, especially the oils described here.

#2: Keep pets out of the kitchen and away from the dinner table 

Many holiday celebrations revolve around large savory meals and endless sweet treats. The kitchen is a popular gathering place during family festivities and the delicious aromas are difficult for pets—and most humans—to resist. However, kitchen chaos can lead to counter-surfing and dumpster-diving pets eager to sample the day’s bounty. Many holiday ingredients and dishes are toxic or difficult for pets to digest. Sharing your plate with your pet can lead to gastrointestinal (GI) distress and inflammation including pancreatitis which is a potentially deadly inflammatory condition that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and dehydration. Additionally, never share leftover bones with your pet as they can cause dangerous GI blockages which may require emergency surgery. Also ensure you put a pet-proof lid on all garbage cans within your pet’s reach and frequently remove all garbage and food scraps from the home.

#3: Avoid pet-toxic holiday plants and flowers

Floral centerpieces and seasonal plants are popular holiday gifts; however, ensure you do not bring any pet-toxic plants into your home. Many plants and especially lilies are severely toxic to cats. Eating only a small amount of any part of the plant, including the pollen and leaves, can cause drooling, vomiting, and decreased appetite, and can lead to kidney failure. While the popular poinsettia is no longer considered toxic unless large amounts are consumed, the sap in poinsettia leaves is irritating to your pet’s mouth and throat and eating the leaves likely will cause your pet to become nauseated and vomit. Always check the ASPCA toxic plant list before adorning your table or home with floral or plant centerpieces, and keep these other popular holiday plants out of pet’s reach:

• Mistletoe
• Balsam
• Amaryllis
• Pine
• Cedar
• Holly
• Christmas cactus 

#4: Keep wires, batteries, and small toys out of paw’s reach

The numerous cords and wires required for your twinkling lights, electric candles, and other holiday decorations can be dangerous to curious pets who may mistake them for new chew toys. Keep all cords and wires out of paw’s reach because chewing or swallowing them can lead to serious injury including oral burns, electric shock, or GI distress or blockages. 

Ensure your pet does not have access to any batteries because most contain zinc which is toxic if ingested. It also can cause GI distress, anemia, seizures, and death in some cases. Keep a watchful eye as well on any small children’s toys since your pet could mistake them for new pet toys and swallow them which could cause intestinal damage or a blockage that requires surgical removal. 

#5: Prepare for unexpected pet emergencies  

It is not uncommon for Christmas cats and “Holidogs” to let their mischievous nature get the better of them despite your best efforts to keep them out of holiday trouble. Ensure you have the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center number, your family veterinarian’s contact information, and our Animal Emergency Care number and address easily accessible in the event of an accidental toxin ingestion or injury. Common pet holiday emergencies may require an extended hospital stay which can result in a larger veterinary bill. Consider purchasing a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion to ensure funds are available to cover emergency treatment costs. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for your reimbursement. Other pet emergency payment options include pet health savings accounts, Care Credit, Scratch Pay, and short-term loans.

Call your family veterinarian right away if your pet gets into any holiday trouble. If you need help after hours, Animal Emergency Care is open 24 hours a day. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/holiday-pet-safety

https://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/evr_multi_dangerous_winter_holiday_plants

https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/general-pet-care/holiday-safety-tips

https://www.merckvetmanual.com/toxicology/zinc-toxicosis/overview-of-zinc-toxicosis

The post Happy Pawlidays: 5 Holiday Safety Tips for Your Pet appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: DIY pet gifts 

Crafty pet owners or home chefs can put their skills to the test and make a variety of pet-safe holiday treats. The kitchen is often the center of action during the celebrations and family gatherings, and many drooling pets are eager to participate or serve as the cleanup crew. However many holiday foods are dangerous to pets and can lead to gastrointestinal problems or an unexpected veterinary visit. During marathon (human food) cooking sessions it is critical to ensure nosy paws are away from the kitchen. Designating cooking time for pet-safe treats is a great way to include your pets in the food festivities. Try making pet-safe treats by baking your pet’s canned food in cute holiday shapes.

Some finicky feline friends can be the most challenging family members to please with the right gift. Many cat owners have spent countless dollars on the latest and greatest cat toys only to have their furry pal’s whiskered nose turn away. Instead of spending additional money on toys try saving the numerous cardboard boxes you may be accumulating this season and use them to create the purrfect cat hideaway or playhouse by decorating them with some festive colors or paper. And don’t forget to include a paper or aluminum foil ball for your cat’s batting pleasure in their new winter wonderland hiding spot. 

#2: The pet gift that keeps on giving 

Many pet owners know the challenge of searching for the perfect toy that can stand the test of time—or drool. Pets often show their love for a toy by destroying, scratching, or tearing it up within days or minutes in some cases. It is also not uncommon for pets to become bored with certain toys especially if they do not have a variety available. Fortunately pet gift subscription boxes are available to surprise your pet with new toys and treats throughout the year. Companies like Barkbox and KitNipBox send your pet a new set of themed toys and treats each month. Gift boxes are also a great option to send to a pet-owning friend or rescue group. Pets who are bored may act out so providing them with a variety of toys year-round is a great tool to keep their mind and body active. 

#3: Pet insurance for the unexpected veterinary visit

Accidents or pet emergencies can occur at any time. Common holiday emergencies including gastrointestinal blockages, pancreatitis, or toxic food ingestion may require an extended hospital stay which can result in a larger veterinary bill. Purchasing a pet health insurance plan like Trupanion when your pet is young will ensure funds are available for your pet’s emergency care. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for reimbursements. 

#4: Lights, camera, pet treats 

As post-COVID life slowly returns to normal, many pets and pet owners are learning to adjust to life without each other 24/7.  For many pets, the change has caused post-pandemic separation anxiety which can lead to them acting out by house soiling or vocalizing when you leave the home. Bring your pet in to your family veterinarian if you have noticed any behavior changes because some signs like depression can indicate a medical problem. One way to ease separation stress for you and your pet is with the gift of a Furbo camera and treat dispenser. Furbo allows you to see and talk to your pet when you are not home. Your pet also will appreciate the treat-dispensing feature. Other Furbo benefits include:

• A bark detector
• Video recorder, which is especially useful to show your veterinarian any abnormal behaviors
• Night vision

#5: Cozy pets are happy pets 

The dropping temperatures can make daily walks or outdoor activities unpleasant and potentially dangerous for pets. Although your pet has a natural fur coat they are still at risk of developing hypothermia from prolonged exposure to the cold. Ensure your pet is protected this winter by buying them some proper winter gear. Products such as Musher’s secret and dog boots will help prevent cracked and injured paws caused by icy sidewalks. A properly fitting winter sweater or jacket will help keep your pet’s core body warm on chilly outings, and the numerous selections will ensure they are equally stylish.  

If your pet considers a trip to their food bowl a workout or if they prefer cuddling to outdoor adventures, then consider gifting them with a cozy fleece blanket or a pet-safe heated bed for those extra chilly winter days.  

Happy Pawlidays from our Animal Emergency Care team. If your pet gets into any holiday trouble after hours contact our office and bring them in for treatment. #AECprevents

The post Happy Pawlidays: Five Pet-Safe Gift Ideas appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: Avoid sharing your plate with your pet 

Many popular Thanksgiving dishes are the cause of holiday pet emergencies because rich fatty foods such as turkey with gravy or other marinated meats are difficult for pets to digest. Pets who indulge in the family meal are at risk for gastrointestinal problems including pancreatitis. This inflammatory condition can be life-threatening and require overnight hospital care. Many Thanksgiving dishes or ingredients may be toxic to pets and lead to kidney problems, heart arrhythmias, or blockages that could require surgery. Never feed your pet the following: 

• Spices and herbs — Stuffing, turkey brine, and other premade holiday foods often contain herbs, essential oils, and resins that can be toxic, especially to cats. Pets who eat these ingredients have an increased risk of gastrointestinal upset or central nervous system depression. 
• Onions, garlic, and chives — Small amounts can cause life-threatening anemia.  Signs that your pet has ingested these foods include panting, high heart rate, and blood in the urine.
• Raisins and grapes — Just one raisin or grape can cause kidney failure in dogs. Signs can occur up to two hours after ingestion and include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, and excess urination.
• Yeast rolls — Eating unbaked yeast rolls or any raw dough can result in painful gas and intestinal bloating.
• Casseroles —Pets do not have enough of the enzyme lactase which is needed to properly digest the dairy products commonly used in most casserole dishes. Eating any milk-based product can cause gastrointestinal problems.
• Chocolate — All chocolate, but especially dark and baker’s chocolate, contain methylxanthine stimulants, specifically caffeine and theobromine, which can be deadly to dogs. Clinical signs include vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, elevated heart rate, and possible death.
• Sugar-free treats — Many sugar-free foods and peanut butters contain the sweetener xylitol. Small amounts can be toxic to dogs and result in liver failure, seizures, and death in some cases.
• Alcohol — Desserts or beverages containing alcohol can cause a variety of problems including vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, tremors, or death. 

#2: Pet-proof your decor 

Pumpkin spice-flavored candles, decorative cornucopias, and festive flowers set the perfect Thanksgiving mood but can spell disaster for your pet. Always check the ASPCA toxic plant list before adorning your table or home with floral or plant centerpieces. Place lit candles out of paws’ reach to prevent singed whiskers and burned paws. Many scented candles, potpourri, and votives contain essential oils, which are toxic to pets, especially cats, puppies, or dogs with liver disease. Essential oils can be absorbed by inhalation or through the skin. The toxic effects vary and may include coughing, difficulty breathing, panting, seizures, and in some cases death. Ensure your Thanksgiving decor does not include any of these essential oils:

• Clove oil
• Eucalyptus oil
• Tea tree oil
• Wintergreen oil
• Oil of sweet birch
• Citrus oil
• Pine oil
• Ylang-ylang oil
• Peppermint oil
• Cinnamon oil
• Pennyroyal oil

#3: Prevent your pet from counter-surfing and dumpster diving 

Many curious noses will take advantage of the kitchen chaos during Thanksgiving meal preparations and post-meal cleanups. The tempting smells of sizzling meats and discarded food scraps are difficult for pets to resist, and nosy snouts may want to sample wrappers, leftovers, and discarded bones. Eating turkey bones or corn cobs can lead to intestinal obstructions or tears which may require emergency care and surgery. Wrappers with raw meat remnants can cause salmonella poisoning, leading to gastrointestinal distress, infection, or pancreatitis. Ensure that a pet-proof lid is placed on all garbage cans and frequently remove all garbage and food scraps from your home to prevent a Thanksgiving pet emergency. 

#4: Provide your pet a safe space during celebrations 

Loud noises, unfamiliar people, and strange smells can be stressful to pets so set up a safe space such as a crate or comfortable room where they can retreat during festivities. Play soft music, provide a special toy or treat, and consider using a pheromone spray such as Adaptil or Feliway to promote a calming environment. Pets with severe anxiety may benefit from a short-term prescription sedative or serotonin-increasing medication. It is easy to become distracted during the Thanksgiving chaos and some pets may go on an unplanned adventure to join the neighbors’ celebrations. Ensure your pet is wearing an identifiable collar and bring them to your family veterinarian to check that their microchip is functioning properly and your contact information is current. 

#5: Be prepared for pet emergencies 

Pet accidents can happen at any time despite your best efforts to prevent them. Common holiday emergencies including gastrointestinal inflammation or toxic food ingestion may require an extended hospital stay which can result in a larger veterinary bill. Fortunately several payment options are available to cover treatment costs including pet health insurance like Trupanion. Trupanion can pay your veterinary clinic directly, which eliminates the need to submit paperwork and wait for your reimbursement. Other payment options include pet health savings accounts, Care Credit, Scratch Pay, and short-term loans.

Call your family veterinarian right away if your pet gets into any Thanksgiving trouble. If you need help after hours, contact Animal Emergency Care and bring your pet in for emergency treatment. #AECprevents

Sources:

https://www.avma.org/resources/pet-owners/petcare/thanksgiving-pet-safety

https://www.aspca.org/news/how-have-happy-healthy-and-humane-thanksgiving-your-pets

https://www.petmd.com/dog/seasonal/evr_multi_dangerous_winter_holiday_plants

https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/blog/essential-oils-cats/

The post No Bones About It: 5 Tips For A Safe Pets-Giving  appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: Ensure your cat cannot sneak outside

Secure all entrance ways to ensure your cat cannot slip outside. Cats may be sensitive to the cold, but they are also mischievous and curious. If you leave a window cracked or a screen door is loose your cat can easily find their way outdoors to explore and end up exposed to extremely cold or inclement weather. Keep your cat inside to ensure they stay safe, healthy, and warm.

#2: Feed your cat a healthy diet

Seek advice from your family veterinarian to ensure you are feeding your cat a nutritious diet. Cats can lose weight as they age which can make them more susceptible to cold. An appropriate diet can also help keep their coat thick and healthy which can insulate them from the cold and keep your cat cozy. 

#3: Keep your cat active

Provide daily interactive playtime for your cat. Figure out what toy your cat prefers and entice them to run and jump which will get their blood flowing and increase their body temperature. Daily play sessions are also important for your cat’s mental and physical well-being. Older cats can benefit from spirited playtime too, but ensure the play session is appropriate for their physical condition.  For example, if your cat has a heart condition or arthritis, they should not chase balls up and down stairs. They may appreciate a more sedate game, such as stalking and pouncing on wand-like toys. 

#4: Keep your cat out of the garage and basement

You may think the garage or basement is a perfect place to put your cat’s smelly litter box, but these areas can get cold in the winter and make a trip to the bathroom uncomfortable for your pet. Putting their litter box in a more convenient location will ensure your cat does not decide to find other areas to powder their nose such as your living room carpet, and will help keep them warm. 

#5: Do not turn down the heat when you leave your cat at home

You may be tempted to turn your heater off when you leave the house in an effort to save money. However, your cat will suffer when the cold starts to set in. Ensure your heating system is reliable and keep the heat on continuously during the winter months.

#6: Provide numerous warm areas for your cat to nap

Cats enjoy a warm place to sleep and they appreciate multiple areas throughout the house they can use as nap areas. Ideas to make your cat’s bed as comfortable as possible include:

• Providing blankets — Place unfolded blankets throughout your house so your cat can arrange the bedding to their liking. 
• Elevating their bed — Heat rises, so your cat will stay warmer if their bed is off the floor. Ensure the bed is on a stable surface so they do not take a tumble when they are getting comfortable.
• Seeking out sunshine — Place your cat’s bed in a sunny spot in your home so they can take advantage of the warm sunshine.
• Trying a heated bed — Heated beds are available if your cat needs extra warmth, but ensure the product is safe for your pet. 

#7: Share your bed with your cat

Snuggling with you is likely your cat’s favorite way to stay warm and sharing your bed is pure bliss for them. As long as their presence does not interfere with your sleep, consider letting them bed down with you to share the warmth.

#8: Recognize when your cat is cold

If you see your cat is cold, you can take extra steps to warm them up. Signs your cat is cold include:

• Seeking lap time — Your cat may be extra-needy but this behavior also may indicate they are chilly and want your body heat to help them warm up. 
• Sleeping on heated surfaces — If you routinely find your cat sleeping on the radiator or your laptop, they may be looking for a warm place to nap because they are cold.
• Curling into a ball — Your cat will tuck their paws and tail under their body to preserve heat when they are cold. This position not only makes them look exceptionally cute, but it also keeps them warm.
• Puffing their coat — Your cat may be feeling chilly if they are hunched close to the ground and puffing out their coat.
• Cold extremities — Your cat’s nose, tail, ears, and paws will start to feel cold to the touch if their body temperature drops.
• Shivering — Your cat may shiver to generate heat through muscle activity if they become really cold. 

Watch your cat closely this winter to ensure they are not getting too cold, and take steps to provide areas where they can go to warm themselves. If your cat is experiencing a veterinary emergency, contact our team at Animal Emergency Care so we can get them the care they need. #AECprevents

The post 8 Tips to Keep Your Cat Cozy appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.

#1: Recognize if your dog is sensitive to the cold

Some dogs are more prone to cold sensitivity than others. Small and toy breed dogs, short-haired dogs, and breeds who don’t have an undercoat are more likely to get cold than breeds such as Saint Bernards, Alaskan malamutes, and Siberian huskies. In addition, puppies and older dogs are more sensitive to the cold. 

#2: Dress your dog for the elements

Many dog sweaters and coats are available to help keep your dog warm. Consider a few factors when purchasing your dog’s winter wardrobe.

• Your dog’s willingness — If your dog is not used to wearing clothes, they may find being dressed in winter apparel stressful and upsetting. Introduce the new clothing slowly so your dog can get used to it. Some dogs may prefer items they can step into to avoid having clothing articles pulled over their head. Give them time to adjust to wearing their new duds before taking them on outings to ensure they do not get anxious.
• The clothing’s fit — The apparel should fit comfortably without being too tight. Check the clothing at the neck, armpits, and groin, ensuring you can comfortably fit two fingers between the fabric and your dog. You also want to ensure the clothing is not too loose so they don’t become entangled in the fabric. 
• The clothing’s comfort — Check to see that the material is not irritating to your dog’s skin and that any seams or zippers do not bother them when they walk or lie down. 
• Other dogs —Ensure other pets do not pull or bite on your dog’s clothing during playtime Their teeth can easily get caught in the material.

Wash your dog’s winter apparel regularly using detergent that is dye and fragrance free to prevent your dog’s skin from becoming irritated.

#3: Check your dog’s paws

Ice, deicer, and salt can build up on your dog’s paws during your daily walk. Your pet can ingest harmful chemicals if they lick their paws which can lead to serious health problems. The cold temperatures can also cause tissue damage to their sensitive paws. Booties are a great way to protect your dog’s feet and they are available in every paw size. If your dog rejects the booties, wax products are available that will form a semi-permeable barrier over their paws to provide some protection.

#4: Limit your dog’s outdoor time on cold days

Do not leave your dog outside for long periods of time on extremely cold days. Limit their time to bathroom breaks and brief walks, especially if they are sensitive to the cold. Never leave your dog unattended in a car on cold days (or ever). 

#5: Ensure your dog has places to warm up inside

Provide comfortable, cozy beds for your dog to warm up on when they come in from the cold. Placing a blanket on their bed can help provide additional insulation if needed. Heated dog beds and pads are available for dogs particularly sensitive to the cold, but ensure the product is safe and appropriate for your pet. These products should never be used if your dog has difficulty getting up since they could be burned if they cannot move away when the bed or the pad gets too hot. Also avoid using space heaters which can be knocked over easily and potentially injure your dog.

#6: Know how to recognize hypothermia in dogs

The normal body temperature for dogs is 101 to 102.5 degrees, and hypothermia can set in if their temperature drops to around 99 degrees. When this occurs, blood vessels near the surface constrict to send blood away from the skin, legs, ears, feet, and nose and toward essential organs such as the brain and heart. Hypothermia can vary in severity.

• Mild hypothermia — Your dog’s ears, limbs, and paws will be cool to the touch and may appear pale. 
• Moderate hypothermia — Your dog will start to shiver and their muscles will become tense. While the muscular activity produces heat, it also can make your dog’s movements stiff and clumsy. Other signs include sluggishness, confusion, and pale gums.
• Severe hypothermia — Your dog will stop shivering and their body temperature will drop rapidly. Their heart rate will slow and become erratic. Their breathing will slow down and they will become increasingly lethargic and unresponsive as their oxygen levels drop. 

If your dog becomes hypothermic, get them to a warm area as soon as possible, and warm them using blankets and warm water bottles. They will need prompt emergency veterinary attention to get back to their normal body temperature. 

Keeping your dog warm this winter will protect them from many issues the cold can cause. If your dog is experiencing a veterinary emergency caused by the cold, contact our team at Animal Emergency Care so we can get them on the warm road to recovery. #AECprevents

The post 6 Tips to Keep Your Dog Toasty During Winter Activities appeared first on Animal Emergency Care (AEC) Bellingham, WA.