It’s that time of year now when we find ourselves looking for those nicer, warmer days where temperatures rise above freezing and the winds calm. Most of the keepers have transitioned from their shorts to long pants, jackets, and gloves as they head out to care for the animals. The number of guests decline, but the work only increases for them as the animals require a greater amount of attention. By all measures it seems winter has begun.

Caring for animals during the throes of winter is much more taxing on the staff than the warmer months. Most of the collection has temperature guidelines set to keep the animals safe and healthy throughout the year. During the winter keepers find themselves having to make checks barn by barn to ensure the animals are okay and have plenty of fresh water and feed.

Water is critical to the animals as heaters will dry the air. For those animals tolerant of the cold fresh water is just as important. Most of these barns have heated, self-watering systems to ensure they always have access to fresh water regardless of the temperatures. In some older sections water lines were added later and must be blown out prior to winter to protect them from freezing and bursting. This creates more work for their keepers as they need carry buckets fresh water multiple times a day to ensure the animals have access to fresh water.

Winter can be hard on animals but by taking the proper precautions and understanding the animals’ needs, they can do well despite the cold. Much like the zoo’s animals, pets require special attention. Whether they spend most of the day inside or out, there are precautions to be taken to protect them from the elements to keep them healthy. Outside pets will develop a winter coat that helps protect them from the cold. But when the cold becomes extreme, it is essential they are provided a dry place to stay out of the elements and bedding to insulate them from the frozen ground.

For pets spending most of their time inside, thinking ahead is even more critical. Unless you plan to clean up your home each day like keepers clean their barns, someone will be taking them outside to do their business. Keep a close eye on their pads as the dry weather can cause cracks and if you are walking them in areas that have been treated for ice, you can help protect the pads by rubbing a little petroleum jelly on them first. Bathing them too often in the winter can remove essential oils from their skin increasing the chance of dry, flakey skin. And above all else, make sure they are provided enough food and water necessary to maintain their body temperatures and to stay hydrated.

Most pet owners care as much for their animals as the keepers care for theirs. There are many resources available that will help ensure the safety of your pets just as the zoo uses our resources to maintain the safety of its animals. A good rule of thumb is to remember, if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet.