by Linda Chaé

The presents are unwrapped and we’ve all toasted to a fabulous New Year. We’ve enjoyed our holidays, celebrating with our friends. . .two legged and four legged. The excitement has worn off and we’ve returned to our normal day-to-day routine. BUT, did any of us stop to think how we might make the New Year happier or safer for the four leggeds in our family?  It's time to think about safety in the cold weather.

Here are just a few ‘common sense’ ideas to start your year on the right paw/hoof/foot:
1) If the weather is too cold for you to be out, it’s probably pretty cold for your pets as well. Make sure they can get under cover, out of the wind or into the house/barn/shelter. Soft paws, ears and noses can develop frost bite fairly quickly, so always be aware of weather conditions in your backyard – that means temperature, moisture (snow, sleet, rain, etc) and wind.
2) Be sure your pets are well hydrated during cold winter weather. Pets will tend to avoid drinking if water is too cold or if it is frozen over. If they go too long without adequate water, they can dehydrate and suffer from colic, cramping, convulsions and even death.
3) Exercise is important, so take your pet for a walk but return them to a safe, warm shelter after the walk. Remember that those paws and other extremities can get frostbite if left outdoors when temperatures fall! Keep organic pet by Chaé wound and pain management products handy in case of frostbite or other injuries.
4) Bright holiday decorations look great on trees or trimming the house, but NOT left where pets can get into them – especially when you are removing them for storage. Strings or strands can be deadly especially if they are swallowed or end up around the neck of your pet. Remove and store properly – AWAY from your pets.
5) Treats can be sweet – who doesn’t love fudge or chocolate kisses? But it is deadly for Fido. Just remember that many foods, beverages and plants are dangerous to pets. Keep your pets away from alcohol; chocolate; macadamia nuts; raisins; uncooked dough; holiday plants like poinsettias, lilies, holly and mistletoe; and poultry bones. Other items like tinsel, ribbons, yarn, antifreeze, confetti, balloons or Christmas tree water can result in serious – even deadly – gastrointestinal illnesses for pets, so those are a 'No, No' as well!

Have a fabulous winter season – and remember to keep a special eye out for your four footed friends! That means using appropriate grooming methods in cold weather – like the organic pet by Chaé Waterless Shampoo – for a fresh, conditioned coat ­­­­­­­­WITHOUT a complete drenching with the water hose. You’ll love it as much as your pet and you’ll have a fabulous start to YOUR New Year!