If you feel the cold outside, your dog does too. Many pet owners believe that dogs and cats have fur and therefore sufficient protection from the cold. We, at My Pet Care, see so many dogs that are not allowed inside the house, yet have no blanket or something warm and soft to sleep on during winter. While it is true that some breeds, such as Huskies, are quite comfortable in reasonably cold weather, dogs can get cold very easily. Puppies under 12 weeks should sleep inside, they are simply too young to withstand drafts and cold weather.

Dogs are domesticated animals and need human interaction. It is just cruel to never let your dog inside and interact with family members. Dogs want to feel part of the family. Often dogs that are never let inside develop behavioural problems.

A Warm Blanket And A Dry Kennell – Pet Sitting in Irene

If you do choose to let your dog sleep outside, regardless of the season, consider how quickly temperatures can drop at night and provide a dry kennel and blanket. Cement and tiled floors can get cold very quickly. Provide a bed that is raised from the floor and put the bed\kennel away from drafts and rain. Dogs and cats and other pets that have diabetes, liver or kidney conditions, or are older, are particularly susceptible to cold and could die.

Dogs Are Not Security Guards – House sitting in Irene

While it is true that dogs could alarm home owners by barking at strangers or strange noises, often this becomes more of a disturbance to neighbours as owners get used to and sleep through the barking. Dogs also howl and bark when they feel alone or scared. In terms of safety, you could be better with your dog inside alarming you to intruders. Large dogs who sleep inside are more likely to protect their homes and the family members inside than dogs who sleep outside and not see the inside of the home as their terrain.

First, be kind.

• Check on your dog outside before you go to bed.
• Provide a warm and dry place to sleep.
• Consider joint supplements for older dogs and cats.

Love your pets they need you.

For all your pet sitting and house sitting needs please contact us today, we will gladly look after your animals while you are away