1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Veterinary Medicine

Top 6 Winter Items for Pets

Keep your pet warm and safe

By , About.com Guide

Pets in harsh winter climates need extra protection during the snowy, icy winter months. These items will help keep snow and ice at bay and ensure your pet's comfort and safety.

1. Heated Water Bowl

Heated water bowl © Pricegrabber.com© Pricegrabber.com
With temperatures dropping and snow falling, it can be easy to forget about the fresh water you set out a few hours ago. Pets don't innately know to paw through ice to find water (if it isn't already frozen solid). Eating snow isn't an adequate way to take in water, either. Keep the pet water unfrozen and readily available with a heated water bowl.
Compare Prices

2. Heated Pet Bed

Heated pet bed © Pricegrabber.com© Pricegrabber.com
For arthritic pets, a heated bed is a helpful addition all year round, in all climates! For the cold days of winter, a heated bed is a welcome comfort for indoor pets and a necessity for many outdoor pets. Different beds are available for indoor or outdoor use. Find one that fits your pet's needs.
Compare Prices

3. Dog Sweaters and Jackets

Dog jacket © Pricegrabber.com© Pricegrabber.com
While some people dress up their pets for fun, harsh climates make dog coats a necessity for some breeds. All dogs are not suited for all types of weather. Short-coated dogs benefit from a weather-resistant coat. Older dogs can keep a chill off even indoors with a sweater. Caution is advised for pets wearing clothes -- supervision is advised.
Compare Prices

4. Pet Boots

Dog boots © Pricegrabber.com© Pricegrabber.com
Dogs can be very picky about their feet and what touches their paws, but if they will be tolerant of boots, these are a great way to protect paws from snow, ice, cold temperatures and chemical deicers.
Compare Prices

5. Spray On Safe Pet Deicer

This is an all natural "veterinarian approved" spray to apply directly to your dog's paws and underbelly to keep snow from building up and forming ice balls. Composed of "lick-safe" ingredients, this is one way to keep active dogs out and enjoying the snow without ice buildup.

6. Pet ID Tags

Pet ID tags © Pricegrabber.com© Pricegrabber.com
Pet ID tags are a necessity all year round. I am including them here as a reminder that pets may become disoriented if separated from you in a storm or while out running in the snow. Pet ID tag information should also be updated as necessary. Finding your lost pet or locating an owner of an injured pet could mean the difference between life and death.
Compare Prices

Explore Veterinary Medicine

About.com Special Features

Holiday Central

What to eat, where to go, fun things to do and how to save money on the perfect gifts. More >

Make Your Own Scented Pine Cones

Bring a little of the fall season in your home with this easy-to-make craft. More >

  1. Home
  2. Home & Garden
  3. Veterinary Medicine
  4. Weather Related
  5. Winter Health Hazards
  6. Pet Products for Winter - Top 6 Winter Items for Pets>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.