Buying your dream home is a significant accomplishment, and you need to protect your investment. While there is no way you can control severe weather, you can do many things to prevent possible damage to your home and protect your family.

Here are tips you should remember when gearing up your home for an upcoming weather event.

Remedy Any Structural Issues

Inspect your home and resolve issues like peeling roof shingles, loose fence boards, and rattling windows to prevent costly damage. Dealing with damages head-on can save you from expensive repairs after damage from severe weather events. For instance, if a shingle is damaged, it will likely get loose during a storm. If it is missing, reinstall or replace it immediately.

Maintain and Clean Your Yard

Keep an eye on potential hazards surrounding your home. Here is how you can implement basic outdoor maintenance before a weather condition.

• Clean your gutters: Get rid of gutter debris to ensure water can flow properly into drains. Consider adding gutter guards if you have more time, which can keep your gutters debris-free in the first place.
• Unclog downspouts: Free your downspouts from congestion to avoid water damage. Remove debris at the openings, check for any blockages in the outlets, and rinse with water using a hose.
• Trim tree branches: These are among the common causes of roof damage. Inspect for any long branches hanging over your roof. Remove old or diseased trees that can fall on your property.
• Secure your outdoor furniture: Store outdoor decorations, sports equipment, and other tools left outside to prevent them from damage. If you are unable to put them indoors, tie them together as securely as possible.

Invest in a Backup Generator

A spare power source can keep your essential appliances and lights on, especially in brutal weather conditions. In some cases, intense storms can cut power sources for more than a day.  On average, United States customers of electric power interruptions in 2021.

A backup generator delivers power instantly during a blackout, maintaining safety and comfort during emergencies. It also protects the home from voltage surges and fluctuations when power is back. This equipment is especially useful during winter storms, as you want to to prevent property damage like frozen pipes and ensure your family is safe.

If you anticipate harsh weather, consider investing in a backup generator to keep your power on in the event your local grid goes down.

Review Your Insurance Policy

Extreme weather conditions remain a common reason behind property damage in the U.S., with between 2017 and 2021. You should ensure your insurance policy covers the losses you may incur after a natural disaster.

Damages caused by earthquakes, flooding, and hurricanes , so you may need to invest in additional insurance, especially if you live in an area prone to natural disasters. Create a list of your belongings as documentation for the insurance company and keep it somewhere safe and dry.

Inspect Your Roof

An extensive roof inspection before an anticipated severe weather event can protect your home, especially thunderstorms, when can easily remove roofing tiles.

If you have a roof that is five or more years old, look for loose nails and shingles and replace them. A visual inspection from the ground can be beneficial for spotting small issues, but you may want to have a professional come out to do a more thorough inspection. This way, you can learn of any notable concerns and manage them as necessary.

Prepare Your Doors and Windows

Pay extra attention to your home鈥檚 doors and windows to maximize protection against brutal storms. Here are some things you can do:

• Seal all entryways: Prevent water and wind from entering through house doors, garage doors and windows by sealing their openings with weatherproofing materials. Aside from helping keep your home undamaged during severe weather, sealing all entry points in your home can reduce your energy bills.
• Install storm shutters: If your home is near the coast, installing storm shutters is a must to protect your home鈥檚 windows from harsh winds and flying debris. Fix and update your storm shutters as necessary to ensure they serve their purpose.
• Apply plywood: You can put plywood on the exterior of doors and windows to protect glass and minimize damage when wind is a concern. This temporary measure can help in a pinch in anticipation of severe weather.

Protect Your Home with These Preparation Techniques

Whether you are anticipating a severe rainstorm or a possible hurricane, you can combat the effects of natural disasters on your home in many ways. Start with these preventive measures to protect your home and your family, and you will be ready for all types of weather.

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Winter is a magical time of year, but not without its own challenges, mainly as it concerns the safety of our loved ones and homes. It is critical to be proactive to protect the structural integrity of your property and those who reside within it as the temperature drops. This comprehensive guide will review crucial measures to safeguard your home during winter.

Inspecting Insulation and Seals

Before the winter chill fully sets in, take a moment to inspect your home’s insulation and seals. Check windows and doors for drafts, ensuring no cold air can seep in. Adequate insulation in attics and walls is vital for maintaining a warm, energy-efficient home.

Clearing Gutters and Drains

One often overlooked winter chore is clearing gutters and drains. Removing debris from gutters prevents the formation of ice dams, which can lead to water damage. Ensure drains are free from clogs to allow proper water flow, minimizing the risk of leaks and flooding.

Trimming Trees and Branches

Heavy snowfall can weigh down branches, posing a risk of breakage and damage. Trim trees and branches that could fall on your property, especially those close to power lines. This proactive step minimizes the risk of accidents during winter storms.

Regular Furnace Maintenance

A malfunctioning furnace during winter is a homeowner’s nightmare. Schedule a professional check-up before the season kicks in to ensure your furnace is in optimal condition. Changing filters regularly is a simple yet effective way to maintain efficiency throughout winter.

Alternative Heating Sources

Many households use and fireplaces for additional warmth. However, it is crucial to use them safely. Keep flammable objects at a distance, ensure proper ventilation for gas heaters, and never leave them unattended. Safety is paramount when using alternative heating sources.

Insulating Exposed Pipes

Frozen pipes can lead to plumbing disasters. Protect your pipes from freezing temperatures by insulating them. This is especially crucial for pipes in unheated areas like basements and crawl spaces. Proper insulation prevents burst pipes and potential water damage.

Drip Faucets to Prevent Freezing

A simple yet effective trick to prevent freezing pipes is to let water drip from faucets. This constant flow helps keep water moving, reducing the risk of pipes freezing. It is a small effort that can save you from major plumbing issues during the winter.

Securing Outdoor Pathways

Clearing snow and ice from walkways is essential for preventing accidents. Use salt or sand to provide additional traction, reducing the risk of slips and falls. It is a small investment in safety that pays off significantly.

Proper Storage of Outdoor Equipment

Summer tools and equipment should be appropriately stored during the winter months. Ensure lawnmowers, trimmers, and miscellaneous outdoor gear are securely stored. Prepare your winter outdoor spaces by covering and protecting furniture and other items.  If you have extra space, move cushions and less durable pieces into storage.

Emergency Preparedness

Create a winter emergency kit including essentials like blankets, non-perishable food, and flashlights. Establish a family emergency plan, ensuring everyone knows what to do in case of power outages or severe weather conditions.

Child and Pet Safety

The youngest family members and pets require special attention during winter. Bundle up the little ones in warm clothing, and limit outdoor playtime in extreme conditions. For pets, provide shelter and warmth and avoid exposure to harsh winter elements for extended periods.

Winter home safety is a holistic approach that involves preparing your home structurally and ensuring the well-being of your loved ones. By taking proactive measures, such as inspecting insulation, maintaining heating systems, winterizing pipes, and securing outdoor spaces, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your family during the winter months.

Remember, a well-prepared home is not just about protecting your property; it is about creating a secure haven for those you hold dear. Stay vigilant, stay warm, and embrace the winter season with confidence.

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As daylight hours are short and the temperatures drop, it’s time to break out the comforting cold weather recipes. Whether you’re looking for something warm and rich or an easy meal that will keep your family full, there are plenty of delicious recipes to choose from. From hearty soups and stews that come together in minutes to seasonal drinks, these winter recipes will be sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So grab a blanket, turn up the heat, and get ready for some delicious wintertime cooking!

Soups and Stews

: This classic recipe is the perfect meal for a cold winter evening. Make sure to use lean cuts of beef and plenty of potatoes, carrots, celery, onion, and herbs for a comforting stew that will warm you up from the inside out.

Slow-Cooker Chili: A popular game-day dish, this soup is sure to please a crowd on cold nights. Look for recipes that incorporate lean ground beef, beans, tomatoes, and your favorite chili spices like cumin and paprika. If you are not a fan of red chili, consider a popular twist such as .

: Rich and flavorful, this classic soup is simple to make in any slow cooker. Look for recipes that call for caramelized onions and plenty of cheese 鈥� it鈥檚 the perfect way to cozy up!

: This vegetable-packed soup is both healthful and delicious. Choose a recipe that incorporates plenty of flavorful herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano.

Cheesy Appetizers and Snacks

: Comfort food at its finest! You can find many delicious recipes for this classic dish online or in cookbooks. Use plenty of cheese and butter for a cheesy, creamy delight. Create variations by adding ingredients like bacon, broccoli, ham, etc.

Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: This classic sandwich is sure to please kids and adults alike. Make your sandwich more interesting by switching up options for the cheese and bread. Serve with a bowl of tomato for dipping.

Fondue: This decadent cheese fondue is perfect for chilly winter nights. Look for recipes that call for sharp cheddar, , or Gruyere cheese along with garlic, wine, and herbs. Serve with a side of crusty bread or vegetables for dipping. Remember, fondue can easily be turned into a dessert option, too!

: Having friends over for a night in? This cheesy spinach dip is deliciously warm and perfect for sharing with friends. Serve it with crackers, tortilla chips, or pita chips and watch it disappear!

Main Dishes and Sides

: Who says lasagna must be meaty? Use roasted butternut squash, ricotta cheese and a mixture of herbs to make this delicious vegetarian dish that will keep you cozy all winter long.

: A creamy, comforting dish the whole family can enjoy- either as one full pie or in individual or mini pies. Pay special care to the directions for the crust. 聽The flaky crust is essential but also the toughest part of the recipe.

Roasted Salmon with Herbs: Get your omega-3s by roasting salmon fillets with herbs such as rosemary, dill, and thyme or citrus such as lemon or orange. Serve over a bed of greens, rice, or roasted potatoes for an easy yet delicious meal. This cold weather recipe can be served year-round!

Roasted Root Vegetables: Put the oven to work by roasting vegetables like potatoes, carrots, turnips, and onions with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. This healthy side dish is a great option for dinner or lunch.

Desserts

: Nothing says winter like a warm dessert! Mix tart apples with cinnamon and nutmeg, top with oats and butter, and bake. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and whipped cream for an extra special treat.

Chocolate Cake: Most people are fans of cake, especially a decadent chocolate cake! Choose recipes that incorporate ingredients like cocoa powder, espresso, and dark chocolate chips for the richest version. and lava cakes are also popular options for chocolate cakes.

Drinks

Hot Chocolate: Adults and children alike enjoy a great cup of hot cocoa. Look online or in cookbooks for a recipe with real melted chocolate, cream, and spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream on top!

: Warm up your evening with a cup of mulled wine. Simmer red wine with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg- this holiday beverage is delicious anytime during the winter.

Eggnog: Spice up the colder months with creamy, . Serve chilled or warm it over the stovetop in a saucepan or slow cooker for extra ease. Enjoy!

Apple Cider: For those looking for a drink option that isn鈥檛 as rich as cocoa or eggnog, consider apple cider. Simmer fresh-pressed apple cider on the stovetop in a saucepan until hot. Experiment by adding cinnamon sticks, orange slices, or other spices that strike your fancy.聽 For an adult version of the drink, add a splash of brandy or whiskey and enjoy!

There are many comforting options to choose to whip up when the weather forces you indoors.  Feel free to get creative, make substitutions, and create your own version of these cold weather recipes!

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Extreme weather can occur at various times of the year, depending on the part of the world that you call home. If you live in an area of the country that is known to experience weather phenomenon such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or winter snowstorms, are you prepared? Read on for tips to help keep your family and home safe during harsh weather.

Create a Survival Kit

Although you hope to never use it, you should have a survival kit ready for harsh weather. This will help you get through power outages, water outages, and other common problems that result from major storms.

The kit should include the following items, but feel free to add more.

• Water: one gallon per person (a half gallon for pets) per day with a three-day supply for each.
• Food: non-perishable and easy-to-prepare items for three days.
• Flashlight and batteries.
• Battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
• A deluxe family first-aid kit.
• Medications to last seven days.
• Multi-purpose tool.
• Sanitation and personal hygiene items.
• Copies of all your personal documents (passports, birth certificates, deed to home, insurance policies).
• Cell phone and chargers.
• Family emergency contact information.
• Extra cash.
• Map of the area.
• Pet food and medications for three days.
• Matches.
• Duct tape.
• Scissors.

In addition to your home survival kit, it is also wise to have a smaller kit in your vehicle.  This can include the basics- water, blanks, flashlight, multi-purpose tool, etc.

Three Examples of Extreme Weather

Tornadoes

Tornadoes are more common in the United States than in any other country in the world. They mainly happen in spring and summer, typically in the late afternoon and early evening.

The massively strong winds that produce a tornado can wreak havoc on homes and property. Wind speeds can be over 200 mph and send cars and other large items flying through the air. The flying debris poses a risk to anyone out in the storm.

Preparing for a Tornado

If you live in an area prone to tornadoes, it’s best to be prepared before the season starts.

• Know your area and when you are at the greatest risk for a tornado.
• Be aware of the signs of an oncoming tornado.
  • A rotating, funnel-shaped cloud.
  • An approaching cloud carrying a lot of debris.
  • A thunderous roaring sound like a freight train.
• Check with your community to sign up for their emergency alert system and download the app in advance.
• Pay attention to weather reports as the season approaches.
• Have a safety plan in place and practice it with your family.
  • Decide where the safest place will be in your house and plan to go there, such as a basement and away from any windows.
  • Build a in your home according to the proper standards.
• Make sure to have a plan in place for your pets. Decide who will be responsible for them in advance.
• In the event of a tornado, go to your safe location immediately.
• Pay attention to your community’s emergency alerting systems to stay informed.
• Protect yourself from flying debris by shielding your body with materials such as furniture and blankets.

Hurricanes

If you live anywhere off the Southeast and mid-Atlantic coasts or the Atlantic Basin, you have likely experienced a hurricane. But suppose you just moved there. Do you know what to do in the event of a hurricane?

Hurricane season generally runs from June 1 to November 30. This includes tropical storms, which can be just as damaging and deadly.

Hurricanes are a type of tropical cyclone that have sustained winds of 74 mph or higher. You can sometimes tell if a hurricane is coming if you see a rotating system of clouds and thunderstorms rotating counterclockwise. If it’s a tropical storm, sustained winds will be between 39 to 73 mph. If it’s a major hurricane, the sustained winds could be 111 mph or greater.

If you live in an area that experiences a lot of hurricanes, you could possibly experience damage from the

Depending upon how severe the hurricane is, you will likely experience one or more of the following:

• Roof damage.
• Fallen or uprooted trees.
• Flooding.
• Power outages.
• Environmental damage from flying debris.
• Structural damage to your home.
• Loss of clean water.

Preparing for a Hurricane

Here are some steps you can take to secure your home.

• Replace any gravel or rock landscaping with a fire-resistant material that is lighter in weight and can’t do as much damage.
• Trim all weak branches from your trees.
• Have hurricane shutters professionally installed to protect your windows. If you can’t afford that, nail plywood panels all over the outside of your window frames as the storm approaches.
• Make sure that all of your exterior doors are , have at least three hinges, and have a deadbolt lock at least one inch long.
• Make sure your sliding-glass doors are made of tempered glass and covered with plywood.
• Ensure you have garage doors and tracks that are approved for wind pressure and impact protection. If you don’t have approved garage doors, there is the potential for strong winds to blow the doors in or out, and the internal pressure that builds up could cause the roof and supporting walls to blow out.
• Secure all outside furniture, boats, and trailers, and bring all patio furniture and garbage cans inside.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors in central locations on every level of your home.

Winter Snowstorms

For those living in the north, a winter snowstorm can range from inconvenient to deadly! The freezing temperatures combined with snow, ice, and blizzard conditions can cause frostbite, hypothermia, or worse.

The risks to your home are also hazardous. The weight of heavy snow can knock down trees and power lines, causing roofs to collapse or partially cave.

Pipes can freeze, causing them to burst, leading to thousands of dollars in damage from flooding.

There is also a risk of fires or carbon monoxide poisoning when generators are misused. So, what should you do to be prepared?

Preparing for a Winter Storm

Follow a few steps to prepare for snowstorms and icestorms.

• Insulate the water lines that run along the exterior walls of your home so your water supply doesn’t freeze. If temperatures get below freezing, let your faucet drip just a little to keep the water moving.
• Caulk and weather-strip your doors and windows to seal all air leaks.
• Insulate your walls and attic.
• Install storm or thermal-pane windows. If you cannot do that, you can cover the inside of your windows with plastic.
• Make sure to repair any roof leaks.
• Trim tree branches that could fall on your home.
• Make sure your gutters and storm drains are clear of debris.
• Make sure to have your chimney inspected every year.
• Make sure all fuel-burning equipment, such as generators, are placed outside, away from your home.
• Install carbon monoxide alarms in central locations on every level of your home.

These are just a few things you can do to help keep your family and your home as safe as possible the next time extreme weather hits your community. Staying alert and prepared can go a long way!

About the Author: Alexandra Christensen is a freelance writer and single mom of three adopted kids with unique abilities. She is a novice homeowner and spends a lot of time on DIY sites looking for ways to make home improvements herself and save some money. When not freelancing, she can be found at聽.

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As fall winds down and winter approaches, it is important to do what you can to keep your pets safe. The cold months pose many risks and challenges, but we’ve rounded up everything you need to know for keeping your furry and feathered loved ones safe this winter!

Check Wheel Wells & Engine Compartments

In the winter, cats and small animals may sleep in wheel wells and automobile engines to keep warm. If you start your car and an animal is resting on your tire or under the hood, it could be badly injured or even killed by the moving components. Before you start your automobile, you can pound loudly on the hood or honk the horn to alert the sleeping animal. This will rouse the animal and give it a chance to flee before you begin driving.

Bump Up Calories

Dogs, in particular, will use more energy than humans when they are out exercising in the cold. You can assist them by feeding them a little more food so they can make up for the energy and calories they expended playing.

Double check your feeding locations as well. If you keep your pet’s bowls outside, consider moving them indoors to avoid frozen food and water. If the food and water must remain outside, make sure the material of the bowl can withstand harsh weather.

Going Outside? Clean Up Afterward

Your animal’s paws might pick up hazardous substances such as salt, antifreeze, or deicers while on winter strolls. To keep your pets from licking it off and getting sick when you return home from walks, clean off their paws.  The Humane Society cites this as to protect your pet in winter.

Pets can become chilly and drenched after a snow play session, which can lead to a cold or hypothermia if they are chilled for an extended period. To prevent this, make sure to dry your pets as soon as they come indoors. We recommend that you keep a designated pet towel on hand so you never forget this critical step.

Be Mindful of Rock Salt Danger

Rock salt poisoning is a real risk for pets. In addition to wiping off their feet after visits outdoors, monitor to make sure your pet is not eating the salt while they are outdoors. 锘縋ets are susceptible to salt poisoning throughout the winter when rock salt is frequently used to clear roads and pathways. If they ingest it while on a walk or by licking it off their paws, it might be fatal.

The greatest way to avoid salt poisoning is to keep a close eye on your pet and if you detect that they’ve eaten salt, clean their mouth out with water and contact a local veterinarian immediately. If you’re not sure whether your pet has ingested salt, watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, lack of appetite, increased thirst and/or urination, lack of coordination, tremors, and seizures.

If you live in an area that uses salt for road maintenance, try massaging petroleum jelly or other paw protectants into paws before going outside. Paw balms make this easy! If your pet will tolerate it, booties further increase protection by preventing sand, gravel, and salt from gathering between toes and causing discomfort.

Keep Furry Friends Close

Pets are more likely to go missing in the winter than any other season, owing to falling snow that may hide recognizable odors that would normally assist them to find their way back home. Pets can also get spooked during winter storms and thus, t 

Keep your pets on leashes when walking so they don’t get lost, and, just in case you become separated, double-check that their tags include up-to-date contact information. Keep collars on- microchipping should only be used as a backup.

Keep Them Out of the Cold

When it gets chilly, you should never leave a pet outside for lengthy periods of time, according to the Humane Society. You cannot leave your pet outside in below-freezing temps for longer than thirty minutes without seriously risking their safety, or risk of neglect charges.

If you have outdoor pets, they should be able to get into a warm place whenever they need it. Make sure they have access to a dry, insulated shelter that they can move about in and maintain their body heat.

Dress Your Pets

Dressing your pets is not just for fun, it serves a functional purpose – keeping them warm and safe. Pets’ extremities, like our own, are highly susceptible to wind chill- even if the temperature is above freezing. They can get hypothermia and frostbite on their exposed paws, noses, and ears.

Putting them in fleece vests and jackets, waterproof paw booties, and hats can help. Like we previously mentioned, their paw pads will be protected from the de-icing salt on roads and walkways.

Adjust Walk & Play Time

It may be tempting to allow your pet to play in the snow and cold weather for hours on end but, like us, they have cold weather restrictions. If it is below freezing, you should keep play time to less than 30 minutes, especially if you have an older pet or one with any sort of disability.

“Baby” Proof Your Home

Just like babies, pets need a little guidance for home safety. Because your pets should spend more time inside during the winter, it’s essential to protect all the heating equipment that they might come across.

If you have installed a portable heater in your living room, make sure there’s a barrier around it to keep your pet from knocking into it or causing a fire. You may also want to surround radiators with a barrier if they can get extremely hot.

Go For a Checkup

As a precaution, seek veterinary attention before the winter season begins.  This gives your vet a chance to assess whether your pets have any new problems that will make the winter months more difficult.

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and kidney disease can all reduce a pet’s cold-temperature tolerance. Furthermore, as with any other condition, new or worsening arthritis might cause stiffer joints during the winter.

Do Not Leave Pets in Cars, Even in Winter

Much like how a car parked in the hot sun may heat up quickly and become an oven for anything inside it, a cold car transitions into a refrigerator or freezer in little time. In general, it is recommended that you do not take your pets on errands if you know you will be leaving them in a car for more than five minutes, especially if it is chilly outside.

Simplify Grooming

In the winter, remember that a longer coat will trap more heat. If your pet has long hair, simply trim it to prevent the sticking ice balls, salt crystals, and de-icing chemicals from drying out the skin. Do not forget about the hair between the toes! If you have a short-haired pet, consider investing in a coat or sweater with a high collar or turtleneck to keep the base of the tail and belly protected. For many pets, this is standard winter attire and the opportunity to make a fashion statement.

How to Help

Last but not least, if you notice a pet in need of assistance, contact your local animal welfare system. and many Canadian provinces, either as a misdemeanor or felony. The best thing you can do for those that cannot speak up for themselves is to advocate for them!

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Winter weather can create extra challenges for homeowners, between shoring up vulnerable areas against wind and rain, and winterizing structures against freezing cold. 聽But wintertime can pose serious risks for your pets, too, so follow these tips to help keep your home a safe and comfortable place for your pet in winter weather.

1. Keep them inside your home. Domestic pets don鈥檛 have inherent traits that protect them from extreme conditions any more than you do so if it鈥檚 too nasty for you to be outside, it鈥檚 too nasty for your pet. Keep domestic pets inside and make sure outdoor livestock has adequate shelter, dry bedding, and blankets, if necessary, to protect them from cold, wind, rain, ice and snow.

2. Hydration is key. Dehydration isn鈥檛 just a problem in hot weather. If your pet relies on an outside water source, make sure you have a way to keep it from freezing. Pets cannot get sufficient water from eating snow.

3. Gear up for outdoor activity. Whether strolling your neighborhood or taking in local outdoor amenities and attractions, if your pet enjoys time with you outdoors, make sure they鈥檙e equipped for the conditions. 聽To keep them warm and dry, a rain slicker, coat, or sweater serve as more than just cute accessories, and weatherproof booties keep paws dry and provide extra traction on frozen ground. Make sure you don鈥檛 stay out longer than is safe for your pet, and monitor activity and behavior to make sure they don鈥檛 become.

4. Check underneath. 聽Ice loves to cling to hair and fur. Keep your pet鈥檚 paw hair neatly trimmed, and if your pet has been outside, clean off and dry wet bellies and inspect paws and tail for ice balls.

5. Beware of toxic chemicals around your neighborhood. 聽Where there鈥檚 ice, there鈥檚 antifreeze. 聽This is highly poisonous to pets and the neon green puddles can be tempting for pets to try to drink from when all other water is frozen. 聽Likewise, de-icers such as salt and other chemicals can be harmful to pets who walk on ground that has been 鈥渄e-iced鈥� and later lick their paws, ingesting the toxins. 聽If your pet has been exposed to de-icers, make sure to rinse paws in warm water and thoroughly dry.

听6. Chase pets from dangerous 鈥渉iding places鈥� around your home. 聽Cats and other small animals frequently look for warm places to burrow, such as next to the warm engine of a parked car. Before you start your car, knock on the hood or honk the horn a few times to scare away stowaways 鈥� you will be saving their life.

听7. Pets鈥� joints hurt in cold temps, too. Like some of us, older pets can experience arthritis flare ups and increased discomfort during cold weather. A trip to the vet for a check of your senior pet prior to the onset of winter can ensure your pet鈥檚 health and medications are on track. Remember to handle sore older pets extra careful, and diligently keep up medications during cold snaps.

8. Be prepared for emergencies. 聽Have you just relocated to a new area? One of the most important parts of settling into your new home is preparing for emergencies, and this includes prepping for your pet鈥檚 care. In the event you need to evacuate your home, make sure you have pet necessities packed and ready: 聽food, water, litter, medication, towels, blankets, and a favorite toy or other comforting item for your pet. 聽A recent photo of your pet is also a good idea in case you get separated. Many times, pets are not allowed with their owners at evacuation shelters so have a plan for this ahead of time too. 聽Research local pet friendly hotels, or make arrangements to stay with a friend or family member who lives in a safe area.

9. ID is a must. Above all, keep a collar and tag on your pet with your current phone number. 聽If your pet gets lost, the first place the finder will look is on your pet鈥檚 collar. Additionally, your pet should be micro-chipped and registered with your current info. Check your microchip registry and update your information anytime you move or get a new phone number.

This post was written for 皇冠体育app by Estelle Weber, a freelance writer living in Los Angeles. You can read more of her work.

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