As temperatures start to drop, many residents may have animal family members they want to make sure stay safe and warm throughout the winter storm.
According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, pets’ tolerance for cold can vary just like it does from person to person. Long-haired dogs, or those with thick coats, can tolerate the cold more, but they still are at risk in frigid temperatures, according to the association.
Those with short hair have less protection, and animals with short legs get cold faster with their bodies closer to the ground. Dogs will likely need shortened walks, and elderly animals or those with arthritis may have trouble walking in snow and ice.
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“Pets with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or hormonal imbalances (such as Cushing’s disease) may have a harder time regulating their body temperature,” the organization states, “and may be more susceptible to problems from temperature extremes. The same goes for very young and very old pets.”
Here are some tips for keeping pets cozy in the cold temperatures.
Stay inside during the cold wave
Cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, just like people, according to the AVMA. Huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates tolerate the cold better, but “no pet should be left outside for long periods in below-freezing weather.”
Dog paws offer signs of injury
According to AVMA, a dog’s paws help show if there is any injury or damage due to cold weather like cracking or bleeding. The organization also recommends clipping the hair between a dog’s toes to avoid ice accumulating.
Limit car travel
Just like hot cars, cold cars can be dangerous to animals. Do not leave a pet in a car unattended, and the AVMA recommends only necessary car travel.
Keep antifreeze products away from animals
To avoid any chance of poisoning, all antifreeze and de-ice products should be kept away from animals.
Be prepared with supplies
Include the needs of the family pets in the grocery stock-up run. Food, water and any medicine should be able to last at least five days.
Look for potential signs of problems
Whining, shivering, seeming anxious, slowing down or not moving, seeming weak, or looking for warm places to burrow all could be signs of hypothermia. The AVMA states frostbite is hard to detect. A vet should be consulted immediately if there are concerns of either health issue.
This article originally appeared on Evansville Courier & Press: Cold weather safety tips for pets
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