SPOKANE, Wash. — An Arctic air mass is set to bring sub-zero lows and single digit highs into the Inland Northwest overnight Thursday into Friday.
These temperatures will be some of the coldest we have seen this winter and it is good to keep in mind that these cold conditions are not safe for your pets.
If temperatures are below freezing along with a wind chill can be dangerous, and even deadly for domesticated pets. The American Humane Society is urging pet owners to think twice when letting your pets outside for extended periods of time.
Here are some ways to keep your indoor pets warm:
In below freezing temperatures, dogs should be let out only to relieve themselves and cats should be kept indoors at all times.If you bring your pets outside, make sure to remove any ice, salt and caked mud from their paws and coat.Before walks, put paw wax of dog shoes on their paws for protection from sidewalk salt and chemicals.Make sure your pet’s bed is not on the floor in a cold/drafty area.Most dogs don’t burn as many calories in the winter due to decreased exercise. Consider feeding them smaller portions and look for ways to keep them busy with indoor activities.
If you take your pet outside for a long period of time, there is a chance it could lead to hypothermia. Here are symptoms to look for:
Weak pulseDilated pupilsDecreased heart rateExtreme shiveringPale or blue mucous membranesBody temperature below 95 degreesUnconsciousness
Many pet owners may think it is safer to keep their pets in the car while they run errands and other quick trips during the winter months. That is not necessarily true.
Owners are asked to “avoid leaving your dog in the car, even if for brief periods of time. Temperatures 70 degrees or higher can cause heat stroke, while temperatures starting at 50 degrees and lower can lead to hypothermia, especially in small dogs.”
For a look at the Arctic air mass moving into the area and a full seven-day weather forecast, head over to our website!
