The bitter cold weather this week is tough on all animals, two- and four-legged, but it’s especially dangerous for pets who rely on their human counterparts for protection.
Local animal advocates shared their advice and experience when it comes to keeping furry critters safe during the cold snap.
Temperatures were expected to remain in the teens through the week, dropping to single digits this weekend with lows reaching the negative teens.
Like humans, animals are susceptible to frostbite, Kathy Monfort, business manager for Red Barn Veterinary Clinic, said. And like people, their extremities — ears and paws — are most vulnerable. That threat applies even to larger animals like horses and goats.
During these frigid times, pets should be kept inside as much as possible, Monfort said. If that’s not possible, make sure they have adequate shelter.
“If the temperature drops below 20, even a well-acclimated dog is going to need a good shelter, with warm bedding, fresh water and high-quality food,” Monfort said.
Food and water are especially important in cold temperatures, she said.
An animal won’t be able to lick enough frozen water or snow to avoid dehydration, and a dehydrated body won’t be able to hold heat. Dehydration also can cause constipation, especially in horses.
High-quality food also is important to maintain body temperature. Not all pet food can provide the caloric intake required to keep a pet healthy in cold temperatures.
When indoor pets need to go outside to relieve themselves, try to bring them back in as quickly as possible, Monfort said. How long they can stay outside depends on things like body mass, skin quality and fur. Smaller dogs, naturally, are more vulnerable than larger, furry animals.
“We can protect our animals quite well by getting them coats. Horses like coats, too,” Monfort said.
Also, check a pet’s feet when it comes inside. They could have frostbite on their paws, or could have walked over salt or chemicals.
WINTER can bring surprising threats from chemicals, Monfort said.
De-icing products like salt can damage an animal’s feet.
Mice and rats tend to find their way indoors, and homeowners may use poison to kill them. But if an animal eats the poison, or eats a rodent that has ingested the poison, they can suffer from deadly health problems.
