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Seven Things You Should Know To Keep Your Pet Safe When It's Cold

By Kyla Gardner | January 7, 2015 8:15am
 How to take care of your pet during winter
Pet Tips for Winter
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CHICAGO — Hating this weather isn't only for humans.

As forecasts of minus 30 wind chills prompted Chicago Public Schools to cancel classes, Chicago area vets and shelters warned pet owners to take precautions for their furry family members, too.

"Extreme cold weather, like we're having right now, it's rough on people and rough on their critters," said Jerry Klein, a veterinarian at Chicago Veterinary Emergency and Specialty Center.

For example, a stray cat was found with frostbite in South Chicago and went to the city's Animal Care and Control facility, where shelter PAWS Chicago found her Monday.

One-year-old Sunny suffered frostbite on both ears and is malnourished, weighing only 2½ pounds, PAWS spokeswoman Sarah Ahlberg said.

"Unfortunately, we do see that for a lot of animals," Ahlberg said.

So in dangerous weather, how can you help out your own pets, or make life easier for strays like Sunny? We've compiled these tips from PAWS and Klein:

Know the Signs of Frostbite and Hypothermia

Ears, tails and paws are the areas most vulnerable to frostbite for dogs and cats, as Sunny's ears show. Look out for red or gray-tinged or shriveled skin, or if your pet recoils when touched in these areas. A pet suffering hypothermia will be lethargic, have muscle stiffness and no appetite.

Warm Your Pet Up Inside

If you suspect your pet suffers from frostbite or hypothermia, warm him or her up with warm water or towels and blankets heated in a dryer. Don't rub the affected areas or put anything hot on your pet. Call your veterinarian as soon as possible, as it's better to be safe than sorry.

Beware of Salt

Trim the hair in between your dog's pads to keep it from amassing ice balls. When returning from outside, wipe down your dog's belly and pads to remove salt and snow. Salt can irritate pads and can be harmful if your dog eats it.

Avoid Antifreeze Puddles

Antifreeze tastes sweet, but it's deadly. Make sure your dog isn't licking an antifreeze puddle when you are out on walks or stepping through the garage.

Extra Layers Can't Hurt

Klein said he used to be skeptical of winter wear for dogs, but after using it for his dogs during last year's polar vortex, he's now a believer. Dogs can benefit from coats and booties, but most don't take to the clothing right away. Let them walk around the house with one or two booties on to start, Klein said, to help them get used to the feeling.

Shorten Time Outside

In dangerous weather, keep walks or time outside short. If your pet is shivering, move him or her inside.

Tap on Your Hood Before Starting Your Car

Urban animals like squirrels or outdoor or stray cats sometimes seek shelter under the hoods of cars in the winter, so tap on your hood or honk your horn before starting your car.

And here is a hilarious video of Angus the dog getting used to his booties:

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