Cold Weather Warning

If the weather isn't fit for man or woman, it's certainly not fit for an animal.

The winter season brings many activities such as skiing, sledding, ice fishing and snowmobiling. Along with the fun comes snow, wind, ice, bitter cold and a numbing wetness. No matter what the actual temperature, the wind chill threatens life for both people and pets.

• Help your pets remain happy and healthy during these cold months. It should not be assumed that a dog's or cat's fur coat is sufficient protection. Dogs and cats should never be left outside for long periods of time without proper shelter and supervision.
  
  
• Shorthaired dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks and outdoor exercise.
  
  
• If your dog is kept outside, he or she must be protected by a dry, draft-free dog house that is large enough to allow the dog to sit or lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold his or her body heat. The floor should be raised off the ground a few inches and covered with cedar shavings or straw. Rugs or rags should never be used because they hold moisture, which will quickly chill a dog.
  
  
• Check your dog's feet daily during the winter months. If snow or ice collects between their toes, gently remove it. Even "soft" ice can cut their toes badly.
  
  
• Always make sure your dog is given fresh, drinkable water every day. Your pet will burn valuable body heat if it has to eat snow and ice because it is thirsty.

One of the heartaches of our work is to see the neglect that animals are subjected to. Our rescue group recently became involved with a puppy that was tied to a pole in the back yard with no shelter. Thanks to a caring neighbor, the puppy is now safe and in a new loving home. Without the neighbor's concern, though, it's very likely the pup wouldn't have survived very long exposed to the cold and the wind.

If you have an outside pet, please take the time to inspect its shelter. If at all possible, please bring the pet indoors with you, because if the weather is not fit for man or woman, it certainly is not fit for an animal. We'll say it again: regardless of the temperature on the thermometer, the wind chill can kill your pet.

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