Prepare Your Pets and Farm Animals for the Winter Season

This season calls for extra blankets and lots of firewood! While you are keeping you and your family toasty, don’t forget about your pets and farm animals! Keeping them healthy and warm is crucial during the winter months, as cold weather can cause health risks. Whether they are inside with you or hanging out in the pastures, here are some ways to help them thrive in the cold weather:
Keep Them Sheltered
If possible, keep your pets inside, at least during the cold months. Keep their bedding in a warm and dry place along with clean food and drinking water. For outdoor pets, they can be kept in a shed or barn with good ventilation to avoid harsh weather.
Windbreaks are great for cattle, as they reduce the incidence of cold stress in cattle. Be sure to keep an eye on them in case they become ill or show signs of discomfort like shivering, weakness or weight loss.
Keep Them Warm and Clean
Some pets can rely on blankets and sweaters to keep them warm. In fact, they may appreciate this time while you are trying to dress them up for the holidays. Protect their paws from frostbite and make sure their sweaters are dry and snug.
Alternatively, horses, livestock and other outdoor animals can keep warm and clean with heaps of straw. Straw insulates them and keeps them off the cold ground. About 25 pounds of straw per 1,000 pounds of bodyweight is recommended. To prevent mud overload, rotate pastures often to keep cattle from mud buildup due to frequent walking. Mud can cause health issues and can build up on their hides, making them much colder.
Maximize insulation by keeping your animals’ coats clean and dry. Wet or matted fur can increase the risk of frostbite or hypothermia, so brush them regularly and skip shaving during the season. For extra heat and comfort, consider getting a heat source like a heat lamp.
Keep Them Well Fed
Provide your furry friends with clean water and food. If their bowls are outside, check them regularly so they don’t freeze over! Keep their food and drinking water accessible and clean. For outdoor pets, keep their food and water bowls away from obstacles like snow and ice. Keep them well hydrated; cattle won’t eat enough if they don’t get the proper amount of water. Just like heat lamps can keep them warm, water heaters and de-icers can help prevent their drinking water from freezing over.
Depending on the type of animal, some may require extra calories to maintain their body temperatures and energy levels, especially during the winter. For horses, supplement their feed with sloppy bran mash, moistened beet pulp or pelleted feed. For livestock, try increasing the amount or quality of hay given. As always, contact your veterinarian if you notice any problems.
Protect Your Pets’ Paws
Many people sprinkle salt and chemicals on snowy driveways, roads and sidewalks. Did you know that salt and chemicals can irritate and burn your pets’ paws and even cause digestive problems if ingested? The hair between their toes can form ice balls, so trim it short for prevention. Paw wax or dog shoes can protect their paws from irritation and burns. Don’t forget to wipe the soles off before going inside!
Winter can be challenging for your pets and farm animals, but with proper care and preparation, keeping them comfy and healthy should be a breeze with these tips. Whether they’re inside with you or outside in the snow, show your furry friends some extra love and attention during this winter season — they will appreciate it!