26/01/2022
Keep those babies safe and warm! 🐾💛🐾
IF IT IS TOO COLD FOR YOU - IT'S TOO COLD FOR YOUR PET. Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and SHOULD BE KEPT INSIDE.
When is it too cold? 32 degrees is really cold. Especially for small dogs, old dogs, young dogs, and thin coated dogs.
20 degrees and under is when frostbite and hypothermia sets in. Frostbite hurts forever. Hypothermia kills.
Remember these tips to keep your pets safe as Michigan’s bitter temperature continues to fall.
Know your dog’s limits!
Some dogs are more susceptible to the cold than others.
Short-coated, thin, elderly, or very young dogs get cold more quickly – so adjust the amount of time they stay outside! If your dog enjoys being outdoors and you will be outside longer than a few minutes, consider outfitting it with a sweater or coat to keep it warm. Hypothermia and frostbite pose major risks to dogs in winter, so remember, if it is too cold for you, it is probably too cold for your dog!
Wipe their paws!
During winter walks, your dog’s paws can pick up all kinds of toxic chemicals – salt, antifreeze, or de-icers. Be sure to wipe off your dog’s paws when you return from walks to prevent him from licking it off and becoming sick. Purchase pet-safe de-icers for your home for an extra level of safety. And when wiping off your dog’s paws, remember to check for signs of injury, such as cracked or bleeding paws.
Avoid the ice!
When walking your dog, be sure to avoid frozen lakes and ponds. Your dog could be seriously hurt or even killed if the ice breaks. keep your pet on a leash when walking on icy sidewalks. This will protect your pet from slipping which can cause injuries to ligaments, bones, and muscles.
Leave them home!
Just as hot cars are dangerous for pets in the summer, cold cars pose a threat as well! Only take your pets in the car if it is necessary, and never leave them unattended.
Be seen!
Due to Daylight Savings, many of us are relegated to walking our dogs in the dark. Keep yourself and your dog are safe by wearing reflective gear (clothing, leash, collar, etc) and keeping your dog close when walking on the street.
Avoid spills!
Antifreeze attracts cats and dogs because it is very sweet to taste, but it is extremely poisonous and can cause serious illness or death when ingested. Be sure to clean up any antifreeze that spills in your garage and keep the bottle somewhere your pets cannot access.
Be prepared!
Winter brings extreme weather that can cause power outages. Have an emergency plan and make sure they include your pets! Have an emergency kit with enough food, water, and medication to last your pets at least five days. Most likely you will never need it, but if you do, you will be thankful you planned ahead!
Speak up if you see dogs outside. Call your local animal control or humane society.
It’s a horrible fact, but It’s not uncommon for animal control to find frozen dogs.
Knock on your car before starting it. Outdoor cats often seek shelter in the hood.
Have community cats? Here are some sheltering tips: https://catsinaction.org/resources/winter-shelters-supplies/
