Pet Safety

My family and I got a new addition to the family in early December when we adopted a young dog from our local shelter. She lives inside our home so there is no worry during cold times about where she will sleep, however I am concerned about her slipping on ice on our porch when it becomes frozen over. Do you have any suggestions for pet safe ways to deal with ice?

Congratulations on the new addition to your family. You are right to be concerned about your pet’s paws during snow and icy weather, as well as slipping and causing injury on frozen patios or decks. There are some reliable and safe ice melt products on the market. They are more pricy than normal ice melts, however will not harm your new pet. Check with your local hardware for the correct pet safe product. Your veterinarian is also a good source of information for pet safe products. Winter booties to help with slippage and extreme cold and wet conditions are available at many pet supply stores. In a pinch, experts say to sprinkle a little table salt to melt ice. Though it is hard on wood and pets should not be allowed to drink or eat treated snow and ice, it will get you through for a little while until you can find a better solution. Remember to move your pet quickly and safely into the yard to avoid the pet coming in contact with any type of ice melt.