A Safe Place For Your Dog In the Winter



Posted: Tuesday, December 15, 2009

by Kevin Schmidt
Pet Door Express

Now that winter is upon us here in the Pacific Northwest and our first measurable snow amount has fallen, please take the time to make sure that your pets have a safe place to stay warm.

If your pet is accustomed to staying outside, be aware that the temperature can fluctuate from morning to night. A cold north wind can make the temperature fall to a single digit number and then add a 20 mph wind and the wind chill is easily negative twenty. What will your pet do if there is no place for them to get out of the elements and find shelter of some sort.

Stand outside and get a feel for what options your pet might have in finding shelter. Is there a dog house for them to retreat to? A secure location with a roof and sides to protect them? Your pets are trusting you, as their owner, to take care of their needs. We feed and clothe members of our family. Why is it so different to also take care of the pets that we have chosen to be included in our family.

Ways to keep your pet out of the elements could be as simple as obtaining a large cardboard box, cutting a door on the side and lining it with bedding. Make sure to keep the box under cover as any amount of moisture falling on it will make it of no use to your pet. Another way is to build or purchase a wooden doghouse available at any Wal-Mart store or to get materials at a lumber yard and build it yourself. Your pets shelter does not have to be fancy, just secure enough for them to enter and stay warm.

You may choose to search on Craig list in your area for any used dog houses from owners who are no longer in need of them. You might find a quality shelter for a great discounted price. Your pet would appreciate it as would the prior owner with a few extra bucks in their pocket. Plus it can be a great way to "recycle".

When deciding on a size for your shelter, make sure that your dog has enough room to stand up and turn around in but not to large that your pet cannot retain body heat. Do not forget to add some dry bedding such as hay or cedar shaving on the floor of your shelter. An old flannel sleeping bag works great. Keep their bedding clean and dry to prevent dampness and mold from growing.

Take the time to keep your pets safe during these winter months. Your pets will love you for it. Kevin Schmidt, owner of www.petdoorexpress.com which offers pet doors and patio pet doors

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