Offering Some General Advice On The Best Ways To Keep Your Furry Friends Warm & Comfortable Indoors During Winter
While Sunnyvale, California, generally enjoys milder winters compared to other parts of the country, temperatures can still drop, especially at night. Keeping your pet warm and comfortable indoors is essential to ensuring their well-being during the colder months. Here are some practical tips to help keep your furry friend cozy this winter.
Provide a Warm and Comfortable Bed
1. Provide a Warm and Comfortable Bed
Make sure your pet has a warm, soft place to sleep, away from cold drafts. A plush pet bed with extra blankets can help keep them comfortable. Heated pet beds or self-warming pads are great options for pets who get cold easily, such as small dogs, senior pets, or short-haired breeds.
To learn more about the best rated heated pet beds, click here.
2. Keep Your Home At a Comfortable Temperature
Even though winters in Sunnyvale aren’t extreme, indoor temperatures can become chilly at night. Keep your thermostat set to a comfortable level for both you and your pet. If you lower the heat while you’re out, consider leaving a space heater (safely placed) in the room where your pet spends most of their time.
For more information about the ideal indoor temperatures for pets, click here.
Dress Your Pet for the Season
3. Dress Your Pet for the Season
Some pets benefit from wearing a cozy sweater or jacket indoors, especially small, short-haired, or senior dogs. However, always ensure the clothing is comfortable, well-fitted, and does not restrict movement.
4. Create a Cozy Resting Spot
Set up a warm corner in your home with plush blankets and cushions where your pet can curl up and relax. If your pet enjoys burrowing, a covered pet bed or an enclosed space like a small tent can provide extra warmth.
Provide Proper Nutrition
5. Provide Proper Nutrition
A well-balanced diet is essential to help your pet regulate body temperature. Ensure your pet is eating a high-quality diet, and consider adding omega-3 fatty acids to promote a healthy coat, which acts as natural insulation.
6. Keep Their Paws Protected
While your pet may not be exposed to snow in Sunnyvale, cold flooring can still be uncomfortable. Consider using pet socks, booties, or placing rugs in areas where your pet frequently walks or rests to keep their paws warm.
Keep Them Active Indoors
7. Keep Them Active Indoors
Exercise generates body heat, helping pets stay warm. If it’s too chilly for long outdoor walks, engage your pet in interactive play indoors. Puzzle toys, indoor fetch, and hide-and-seek are great ways to keep them moving.
8. Use Safe Heating Methods
If you use space heaters or fireplaces, ensure they are pet-safe and placed in areas where pets cannot accidentally knock them over or get too close. Never leave pets unattended near open flames or exposed heating elements.
Keep Their Sleeping Area Dry
9. Keep Their Sleeping Area Dry
Moisture can make your pet feel colder. Wash their bedding regularly and make sure it remains dry. If your pet gets wet from rain or damp conditions, dry them off thoroughly with a towel before letting them settle in.
10. Watch For Signs Of Discomfort
Even indoors, pets can feel the cold. Signs your pet may be too chilly include shivering, curling up tightly, reluctance to leave their bed, or seeking extra warmth by snuggling against you or heat sources. If you notice these signs, take extra steps to warm them up.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your pet stays warm and cozy indoors throughout the winter season in Sunnyvale. A little extra warmth and comfort go a long way in keeping your furry companion happy and healthy!
Need A Dog Walker Or Pet Sitter?
Need A Dog Walker Or Pet Sitter?
If you or someone you know is looking for pet sitting or dog walking services, then look no further than Paws & Claws Pet Sitting and Dog Walking! We service the Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Cupertino, Santa Clara, and West San Jose areas. Click here to contact us or give us a call at 408-752-2997.
Additionally, be sure to check us out on social media too! We post regularly on Facebook and Instagram. Be sure to subscribe so you never miss an update or adorable picture of the many pets we care for.
