Winter arrives, often blanketing our world in a pristine layer of white. While beautiful, that snowfall quickly turns into a chore: shoveling. For many households, this task happens while beloved furry companions are nearby, either watching from a window or perhaps even eager to join the snowy fun. However, mixing snow shoveling with pets requires extra caution to ensure everyone stays safe and sound during this common winter activity.
It might seem like a simple task, moving snow from point A to point B, but when dogs or cats are in the vicinity, potential hazards emerge. Pets, especially smaller ones or those with coats that blend into the snow, can be surprisingly difficult to see. The noise and commotion can also be frightening, potentially causing them to bolt unexpectedly. Understanding the risks and preparing accordingly is crucial for a hazard-free snow clearing session.
Preparation is Paramount: Setting the Stage for Safety
Before you even pick up the shovel, taking a few preparatory steps can make a world of difference in keeping your pets out of harm’s way. Rushing into the task without considering your pet’s location and safety is where problems often begin.
Keep Pets Securely Indoors
The absolute safest place for your pet while you are actively shoveling snow is inside your home. This eliminates almost all direct risks associated with the activity itself. Ensure doors are securely latched and that windows are closed. If you have a doggy door, consider blocking it temporarily while you work, especially if it leads directly to the area you’ll be clearing. Cats, known for their ability to slip out unnoticed, should be accounted for before you head outside.
Scan the Shoveling Zone
Even if you plan to keep pets inside, it’s wise to do a quick visual sweep of the area you intend to shovel before you start. Cats sometimes find shelter under bushes or decks, and small dogs might have darted out previously without you realizing. Look carefully for any signs of animals huddled or hidden near the paths, driveways, or decks you need to clear. Pay extra attention around shrubs or low-hanging branches where snow might conceal a small animal seeking refuge.
Check Fences and Gates
If you have a fenced yard where your pet sometimes spends time (even if they’ll be inside while you shovel), check the gates and fence line after a heavy snowfall. Snow drifts can create ramps allowing pets to climb over fences they normally couldn’t clear. Accumulated snow weight can also sometimes push gates open. Ensuring the enclosure is secure prevents escapes later on.
Techniques and Awareness While Shoveling
Once you’ve prepared, the focus shifts to maintaining awareness and using safe techniques while actively moving snow. Your movements, the placement of snow, and the tools you use all play a role.
Visibility and Vigilance
Wear bright clothing. While this is often recommended for visibility to cars, it also helps make you more visible should a pet somehow get outside unexpectedly. More importantly, stay vigilant. Avoid wearing headphones or earbuds that block out surrounding sounds. Listen for any unusual noises – a yelp, a bark, or the sound of an animal moving nearby. Constantly scan the area, not just where you’re immediately shoveling, but the periphery as well.
Mindful Snow Placement
Think about where you’re piling the snow. Avoid creating massive piles right next to doorways or gates, as these can block emergency exits or create unintended climbing opportunities for adventurous pets later. Be particularly careful not to accidentally bury designated potty spots your dog relies on. While clearing paths is essential, try to leave a small, accessible area for them if possible, or clear it first. Importantly, never throw snow directly towards areas where pets might be, even if they are behind a window – the impact could startle them or even damage the glass.
Crucial Safety Step: Always keep pets securely indoors while you are actively shoveling snow. This is the single most effective way to prevent accidents like being hit by the shovel, buried under snow, or becoming overly stressed by the activity. Double-check that doors are closed and pets are accounted for before you begin.
Handling the Shovel and Tools
Be conscious of how you swing and use your shovel. Avoid wide, uncontrolled arcs, especially when tossing snow. Keep movements deliberate and contained. When taking a break, don’t just lean the shovel against a wall where it could easily fall over onto a curious pet investigating later. Lay it down flat on the ground in a safe location or securely prop it up out of the way.
Considering Noise and Stress
The rhythmic scraping of a shovel on pavement can be surprisingly loud and grating. For sensitive pets, even hearing this from indoors can be a source of anxiety or stress. Recognize that your shoveling might be disruptive. If your pet seems agitated, try to provide them with a quiet space away from the windows and doors, perhaps with some calming music or a favorite chew toy to distract them.
The De-icer Dilemma
Many people use chemical de-icers or salt to melt remaining ice after shoveling. These products can be extremely harsh on pets’ paws, causing irritation, cracking, and chemical burns. Worse, if ingested (often by licking paws after walking on treated surfaces), they can cause serious internal issues.
- Choose Pet-Safer Options: Look for de-icers specifically labeled as “pet-safe” or “pet-friendly”. These often use ingredients like magnesium chloride or calcium magnesium acetate, which are generally less harmful than traditional rock salt (sodium chloride) or calcium chloride, though moderation is still key.
- Apply Sparingly and Strategically: Use the minimum amount necessary to treat icy spots. Avoid broadcasting pellets widely. Apply them *after* shoveling is complete and ideally when pets are securely inside and will remain so for some time, allowing the product to work and potentially dissipate slightly.
- Sand or Kitty Litter: For traction without melting, consider using sand or non-clumping kitty litter. These won’t melt ice but can provide grip on slippery surfaces without the chemical risks.
Post-Shoveling Procedures
Your work isn’t quite done when the last shovelful of snow is tossed. A few final steps help ensure the area is truly safe before letting your pets back out.
Final Area Check
Before letting your dog out for a potty break or allowing your cat supervised yard time, do one last visual inspection of the cleared areas and snow piles. Ensure paths are wide enough and stable. Check that no tools were inadvertently left out. Make sure snow piles haven’t created unforeseen hazards or escape routes.
Paw Protection and Care
Even if you used pet-safe de-icers or none at all, your neighbors might have used traditional salt. Residue can easily get tracked onto sidewalks and even into your yard. Always wipe your pet’s paws thoroughly with a damp cloth after they come inside from walking on potentially treated surfaces. Check pads for any signs of redness, cracking, or irritation. Consider using pet-safe paw balm before walks to offer a protective barrier.
Clear Pathways are Key
Ensure the paths you’ve cleared are truly navigable for your pet. A narrow trench might be fine for you, but difficult or intimidating for a smaller dog or an older pet with mobility issues. Make paths wide enough for them to walk comfortably and turn around if needed.
Shoveling snow is an unavoidable part of winter for many, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful or dangerous time for your pets. By incorporating awareness, preparation, and safe techniques into your routine, you can clear the snow efficiently while keeping your furry family members safe, warm, and soundly indoors until the job is done and the paths are clear for their next snowy adventure.
