As we approach the coldest part of the year for some regions, it is time to begin thinking of the comfort of our outdoor pets and animals.  When temperatures begin to plummet, animals that live outdoors will begin to have higher energy requirements.  They need even more food and water than normal to help them stay warm and ward off the frigid temperatures.  They also need adequate shelter that is free from drafts and moisture.

For dogs, this can mean putting more bedding in the dog house for them to burrow into, and installing a water heater to keep their water from freezing.  On extremely cold nights, putting them in an unheated room of the house might be the best solution.  Putting them in a heated area of the house may be even harder on them than staying outside, because they will have to readjust to the cold temperatures when they go back outside.

For farm animals, increasing their feed will help get them through the cold, as well as putting extra straw or other bedding materials in their sleeping area.  Make sure to seal up any drafts, because the biggest enemy of an outdoor animal is the wind.  Animals can survive very cold temperatures, as long as there is not an accompanying draft.

When the temperature drops, be sure to check on your outdoor animals frequently.  If they are shivering or otherwise seeming to have trouble with the cold, do what you can to make them more comfortable.  Small or young animals may need to come inside to warm up if they are in serious distress, while larger animals can benefit from a blanket draped across their backs or even a heat lamp in their stall.

Above all, just be watchful and alert to any signs of distress and make sure they do not run out of fresh, unfrozen water.