Anyone who knows me knows I loathe cold weather. Unfortunately, unless I pack up and move to the tropics, winter is here to stay. While I’d much rather spend my days outdoors in the sunshine, this time of year is all about preparing for the colder months ahead.
For people, staying warm, hydrated, and active goes a long way. Short walks, warm layers, and a bit of sunlight—when you can catch it—help boost mood and energy. Pets need similar care. Make sure they have a warm place to rest, limit time outside on very cold days, and wipe their paws after walks to remove ice, salt, and chemicals.
It’s also smart to keep winter essentials on hand: extra blankets, pet-safe deicers, and updated ID tags or microchips in case snow or storms cause disruptions.
With a little attention and a lot of love, I have heard that winter can be a safe and cozy season for you and your pets. Stay warm out there!
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Candice Hinkle
Assistant Director
Program for Pet Health Equity
Knoxville, TN
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