As cold weather settles across the region, Best Friends Animal Society is reminding pet owners that freezing temperatures can pose serious risks to animals.
To help keep pets warm, safe and comfortable throughout the winter, the organization shared the following cold-weather safety tips:
When the temperature drops, danger rises: When temperatures fall below 20 degrees, pets can quickly develop hypothermia or frostbite. Keep animals indoors as much as possible and limit outdoor time to brief walks and bathroom breaks.
Sweater weather: Ears, paws and tails are especially vulnerable in cold conditions. Small, short-haired or senior dogs may benefit from a sweater or coat to help them stay warm. Signs your dog is too cold include whining, lifting paws or slowing down on walks. If you notice these behaviors, head indoors.
Leash up in the snow: Snow and ice can make familiar routes unrecognizable, increasing the risk that pets may become disoriented or lost. Keep dogs leashed, and make sure microchips and ID tags are up to date.
Check your engine: Community cats often seek warmth by curling up under car hoods or near engines. Tap the hood, look underneath or honk the horn before starting your vehicle to ensure no animals are hiding.
The organization also encouraged pet lovers to consider adoption. According to Best Friends’ data, if just 6% of the estimated 7 million people who will acquire a pet this year chose to adopt instead of purchase, the killing of cats and dogs in America’s shelters could be eliminated.
Founded in 1984, Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization dedicated to saving the lives of dogs and cats in shelters nationwide. It operates lifesaving programs in partnership with more than 5,500 shelters and rescue organizations, including the Aztec Animal Shelter and Farmington Regional Animal Shelter.
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