A Kansas State University veterinarian says to consider bringing your dogs or cats inside the next few days.
Susan Nelson is a clinical professor at K-State’s Veterinary Health Center, and advised residents to keep household pets that are not acclimated to colder weather, as well as pets that are very young or very old. They may be at increased risk of hypothermia.
Pets with arthritic conditions will also need extra attention during the cold snap, and should be kept indoors.
If your pet is not housebroken, make sure they know where their food and water locations are. Short haired pets should be kept in fleece or cotton sweaters.
Nelson also said that pets that walk on sidewalks or driveways can pick up rock salt, ice, or other chemicals on the pads of their feet, and may try to lick them off. She advised to keep them away from treated sidewalks or walkways if possible, and to rinse their feet off thoroughly if these areas can’t be avoided. Nelson added that booties are worth considering.
Pets are also susceptible to frostbite on their ears, feet, and noses. Do not let your pet out for long periods time during extreme cold,
