Many animals are habitable in the cold and blustery winter months. A lot of pet owners do not keep their animals in their homes and unfortunately just like humans, some outdoor pets can experience severe dehydration or injury if certain precautions are not taken to protect them. Outdoor animals could be susceptible to a certain amount of stress if they are exposed to severe weather conditions. Just as you prepare for your outdoor pets to have sufficient food and water during the hot summer months, you have to make preparations for them during the harsh winter months as well.

Quite often we witness rescues of some domestic and wild animals getting trapped in freezing cold water while they were walking on an ice laden pond or lake, as the ice gave way under them. Even if you have certain breeds of pets that are suited for enduring the cold weather (like sled dogs for example), they still need proper protection from the freezing cold elements.

Dehydration occurs when animals may have adequate outdoor shelter, but the low temperatures will cause their drinking water to freeze, leaving them with no water to drink. By frequently checking their drinking water or placing it in an insulated container, this could help to significantly reduce the possibility for dehydration, whether they are indoors or outside.

Hypothermia or frostbite occurs when a dangerous drop in body temperature can leave animals vulnerable to conditions such as pneumonia and infection. Ultimately, extended periods of exposure to the frigid elements could cause irreparable damage to the tissue in areas such as the ears, paws, tail and nose, or even worse, death. Just as you would protect yourself from exposure to extremely cold temperatures, be sure to do the same for your horse, dog, cat or even your iguana.