Keep Pets Safe and Warm This Winter

During the winter months, we all want to make sure our whole family—including four-legged members—is cozy and safe, without taking a big bite out of our budget.

There are a few simple ways you can make your home more comfortable and safe for everyone this winter, which can ultimately help you save on energy bills.

At the onset of the cold weather season, replace your heating system’s filter for better air quality and to help the unit operate more efficiently. You can also keep your home cozier by caulking and weatherstripping windows and doors. If your home is particularly chilly, tape or affix heavy, clear plastic to the inside of your window frames to create an additional barrier against the cold. Ensure that the plastic is tightly sealed to the frame to help reduce infiltration.

Winter can be “ruff,” so set the thermostat at 68 degrees, a “purr-fect” temperature for people and pets. This is especially important for smaller, short-haired and senior dogs—not just for warmth but for their general health. Puppies, kittens and older pets with arthritis or other ailments may have a harder time controlling their body temperature and need the additional warmth when it’s chilly out.

Pets that sleep close to the floor can be subject to cold drafts that enter your home through windows and exterior doors. If your pet’s bed is near a window or door that feels drafty, tightly roll up a towel and place it near the bottom of the door or window to eliminate the draft. Cutting down on cold drafts helps everyone feel more comfortable during winter.

If possible, elevate your pet’s bed so it’s not placed directly on a cold floor. An old chair or sofa cushion works well. If you don’t use a dog bed, take some old blankets and create a donut shape on the cushion so the dog can snuggle and nest within the blanket.

You can do the same for cats but on a smaller scale. Blankets enable pets to nestle into them, even when they aren’t tired, and provide a comfortable place for dogs and cats to curl up.

Also make sure pet beds aren’t within 3 feet of space heaters, which is a fire hazard.