Protect Your Pets from Bitter Cold Temps

Protecting yourself during this cold winter snap is a must. But what about your furry friends?

There’s a good rule of thumb to follow during these cold winter snaps:  If it’s too cold to go outside without your winter coat, it’s probably too cold for your pet.

Unfortunately too often, letting pets outside is still part of many people’s daily routines.
 
All it takes is a matter of minutes.
 
“Temperatures at less than negative 10 we can have frost bite in five or ten minutes,” says Prairie Winds Veterinarian, Alicia Wisnewski.
 
And the result can be deadly. Heather Clyde is a shelter manager at Homeward Animal Shelter.

She says caring for animals with frostbite is a big part of the annual budget.
 
“It’s an extra added expense for us to have to treat these animals to make sure they comfortable until they can finally go up for adoption,” says Homeward Animal Shelter Manager, Heather Clyde.
 
Frost bite usually affects an animal’s nose, ears, or tail.
 
“I’ve seen cases a few years ago where they actually lost all of their toes on their feet so it can get really bad if the pets are left out there too long,” says Clyde.
 
“This cat was found with frost bite in the tip of his ears. And unfortunately they will soon fall off.”
 

“The cats that were taking in are friendly cats, so we presume they’ve been previously owned why they’re outside we don’t always know,” says Clyde.
 
Vets suggest keeping your pet on a leash and make sure booties and jackets are always worn.
 
“You have to think about it and go out of your normal routine because that’s when you have dogs go missing and panicked owners.”
 
For so many, our pets are part of the family, so take the extra step to protect your pet this cold winter season.
 
 

Wearing protective booties isn’t only for the cold but also the salt.

Many times salt used to remove snow can be toxic for your pet or even burn your pet’s paws.

Heather suggests washing your pets paws after a walk and using pet friendly salt.