Outdoor pets need TLC to stave off harsh winter weather

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Outdoor pets need TLC to stave off harsh winter weather

(WSBT file photo)

By WSBT 24/7 News

Story Created: Jan 12, 2009 at 11:03 PM EST

Story Updated: Jan 13, 2009 at 3:00 PM EST

If Michiana's harsh winter weather this week is hazardous to humans, it's just as hazardous to animals.

Likely Ralph, a shepherd-mix who's usually an outside dog, will find himself inside this week with his human friend, Ali Traughber of South Bend.

"As precautions, I use fresh hay" in Ralph's dog house, Traughber said. "And I also bought a warming disc at Pet Supplies Plus that is microwavable and maintains heat for 8 hours, depending on how long you heat it up in the microwave."

But, said Traughber, said, "If it hits single digits, I bring my pet in!"

Winter Pet Survival Tips from the Humane Society of the United States and American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals:

  • Don't leave dogs outdoors when the temperature drops. Regardless of the season, short-haired, very young, or old dogs and all cats should never be left outside.

  • No matter what the temperature, wind chill can threaten a pet's life.

  • Protect outdoor dogs in a dry, draft-free doghouse that's large enough for the dog to sit and lie down comfortably. Turn the house away from wind and cover the doorway with heavy plastic or waterproof burlap.

  • Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter. Staying warm depletes an animals' energy.

  • Keep your pet's water supply ice-free. Use plastic bowls — not metal. Animal's tongues — just like human's — can stick and freeze to metal.

  • Wipe off your dog's legs and stomach when they comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice so they don't ingest salt or other chemicals when they lick their paw pads. Those paw pads can also become snow or ice-encrusted, causing sores and bleeding.

  • Don't leave dogs or cats in vehicles during cold weather. Animals can freeze to death.

  • Bang on your vehicle's hood before starting the vehicle. Engine compartments can be a warm spot for cats and small wildlife who crawl up under the hood.

    Report Animal Abuse

  • Humane Society of St. Joseph County (Ind.)

  • Humane Society of Elkhart County

  • Marshall County Humane Society

  • Cass County Animal Control

  • Call your local police department

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