We all know how cold it can get in Alberta during the winter. Follow these steps to ensure your pet stays safe.

In the fall:

• Research and purchase/build an appropriate insulated dog shelter.
• Explore other options for physical exercise for your dog during the winter months
• Take your pet to the veterinarian for its routine health exam.

In the winter:

• Minimize the time that your pet is outside during extreme cold.
• Do not leave your pet in a vehicle as it can act like a freezer and become colder inside than outside.
• Put boots or paw protectors on your dog when walking them outside to prevent salt and other de-icers from affecting their feet. If your pet will not wear boots, make sure to check their feet and lower body after a walk and wash off the salt if necessary.
• Honk your car horn twice before starting your vehicle, cats will often seek the heat of a car engine to keep warm.
• The small extremities on your pet are more susceptible to frost bite. Routinely check your pet while it is outside in extreme cold and if you suspect that your pet has frost bite seek veterinary care.
• Ensure that your pet always has its ID tag on and up-to-date. If your pet gets out a Peace Officer can attempt to reach you at the phone number you provide on the tag.

Outdoor pet shelters

• Even northern breed dogs require an insulated shelter with a door during the winter to get out of the cold and away from the snow and ice.
• Insulated dog houses provide much better protection from extreme elements than plastic ones.
• Heating pads can be used underneath the shelter and heat lamps can be used inside.
• Always use straw for bedding inside the shelter; don't use blankets as they can become frozen when wet.
• Use a heated water dish with a coil around the cord, to keep the pet's water from freezing.