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Pets need protection from the cold as well

With several days of single-digit temperatures in the forecast, humans are advised to wear proper clothing when venturing outside and have a warm place to shelter from the cold.

The same should be done for pets.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, or ASPCA, reminds pet owners winter weather puts their furry companions at risk as well.

“Winter weather can be just as dangerous for pets as it can be for people, but there are many ways to prepare our pets and ensure their safety in potentially hazardous weather conditions,” said Dr. Lori Bierbrier, senior medical director, ASPCA Community Medicine. “Pets can freeze, become disoriented, lost, injured or even killed from being left outdoors in the cold. Any outdoor animals should be immediately brought and kept inside until the storm and cold temperatures pass.”

To help prevent cold weather dangers from affecting a pet’s health, ASPCA experts advise:

— If it is too cold for you, it is probably too cold for your pet. Keep your pets inside where they can stay cozy and safe. Ensure they have a warm place to sleep that is off the floor and away from drafts. If you see symptoms of frostbite, contact your veterinarian.

— After each walk, clean and dry your pet’s feet and stomach. You also may want to bring a towel on long walks to clean off irritated paws. While on a walk, your pet may step in ice, salt and chemicals. Remember to check for cracks in paw pads or redness between the toes. Booties can be effective in covering and protecting paws when out on walks.

— Never shave your pet down to their skin and try not to bathe them as often during cold spells. Longer coats provide more warmth. If your pet is long-haired, just trim them to minimize clinging ice balls, salt crystals and de-icing chemicals that can dry out their skin. Bathing too often can remove necessary essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry, flaky skin. If you must bathe your pet, use moisturizing shampoo and/or rinse recommended by your veterinarian.

— Thoroughly clean up any antifreeze spills. Antifreeze is lethal for both dogs and cats, so be extra careful when using this chemical. Consider products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Additionally, cold weather chemicals such as ice melts can be dangerous when ingested, so always be mindful and keep chemicals up and out of reach. If a pet is suspected of having been exposed to a poisonous substances, immediately contact a veterinarian or call ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

— Keep your dog on the leash in snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost. Many dogs are lost during the winter season, so make sure your dog always wears an ID tag and consider having a veterinarian do a microchip implant.

— In winter, outdoor cats sometimes seek shelter underneath cars. Bang loudly on the car hood before starting the engine to give cats a chance to escape.

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