Following the intense arctic storm that is causing dangerously low temperatures in much of the country, Best Friends Animal Society urgently calls on pet owners to take extra precautions and protect their dogs and cats from the risks of extreme cold.
Severe winter conditions can pose a serious danger to animals, especially when they remain outdoors without adequate protection.
To keep them safe, warm and comfortable all season long, Best Friends shares some practical recommendations:
– Be careful with extreme cold:
When the thermometer drops below 20°F, dogs and cats can become hypothermic or frostbite within minutes. Limit time outdoors to short walks and try to have them spend most of the day indoors.
– Cover them:
Small, older, or short-haired dogs may need a sweater or coat to keep warm. If your dog starts to shake, raise his paws, or walk slower, it’s time to return home.
– Protect their paws:
Salt and ice melting chemicals can irritate the pads, while antifreeze is highly toxic. Use pet-friendly products, clean their paws when you return from a walk, and consider wearing booties.
– Always on a leash:
Snow can confuse animals and cause them to lose their usual trail. Keep them on a leash and make sure their microchip and ID tags are up to date.
– Before starting the car:
Community cats often take shelter near the engine to seek warmth. Tap the hood or honk the horn before starting to avoid accidents.
Pets for adoption
Also, if you’re looking for a way to fill your home with warmth this winter, consider adopting.
According to data from Best Friends, if just 6% of the seven million people planning to buy a pet this year chose to adopt instead of buy, we could end the slaughter of dogs and cats in the country’s shelters.
To see pets available for adoption or find out how you can support this cause, visit Salvaunamascota.org .
Save dogs and cats
Best Friends Animal Society is a leading animal welfare organization dedicated to saving the lives of dogs and cats in America’s shelters and turning the country into a No-Kill Nation.
Founded in 1984, Best Friends operates rescue programs and centers nationwide in partnership with more than 5,500 shelters and rescue groups.
From its headquarters in Kanab, Utah, it manages the largest No-Kill sanctuary in the country, which welcomes thousands of visitors each year.
Best Friends maintains the most comprehensive database of animal shelters in the United States and makes it available to the public to help communities understand local needs and how to contribute.
The organization believes that every dog and cat deserves a home, and that by working together, we can Save Them All .
