Protecting Pets In Cold Weather

With eastern Oklahomaâ€™s recent ice storm, and another one on the way, itâ€™s important to remember our furry friends. <br/><br/>Despite their fur coats cats and dogs left outside can suffer frostbite,

Saturday, January 13th 2007, 12:00 pm

By: News On 6

With eastern Oklahomaâ€™s recent ice storm, and another one on the way, itâ€™s important to remember our furry friends.

Despite their fur coats cats and dogs left outside can suffer frostbite, get lost looking for shelter, because the cold affects their sense of smell, or they could freeze to death. To protect against these things bring your pets inside and take them outside only when necessary.

If your dog was bred for a cold climate, like a Husky, Akita or Newfoundland, they will be safe in the cold and will probably enjoy it, but if you have a Chihuahua keep it inside.

Hypothermia and dehydration could become life-threatening conditions for animals in winter weather. If you canâ€™t bring your animal inside make sure they are in a covered shelter, preferably elevated off the cold ground. The door should face south or east to avoid cold winds, and an old blanket or towels inside the shelter will also help keep your pets warm. Also make sure they have plenty of food and water.

If your animals are damp towel or blow dry them, itâ€™s also important to clean and dry their paws. Chemicals used to melt snow and ice can burn your petâ€™s feet. Because of this you should check their paws, mouth and belly after theyâ€™ve been outside.

Pet owners should also keep their animals away from standing pools of water. It can drop their body temperate and cause hypothermia.

Early signs your pet is going into hypothermia are shivering, lethargy, depression, wobbly legs and pale gums. If your animal has any signs of hypothermia, contact your veterinarian immediately.