- Dogs can be sensitive to severe winter climates.
- Following key steps like limiting time outdoors and bundling up pets can keep them safe.
If you’re wondering how to keep your pet safe and healthy amid Michigan’s cold, snowy week, experts urge following these tips:
Being out in the severe cold can pose serious health risks to pets, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
“Exposure to winter’s dry, cold air and chilly rain, sleet and snow can cause chapped paws and itchy, flaking skin, but these aren’t the only discomforts pets can suffer. Winter walks can become downright dangerous if chemicals from ice-melting agents are licked off of bare paws,” the ASPCA’s website said.
Here’s what to know.
How cold is too cold to walk your dog outdoors?
While sensitivity to cold can vary by factors like a dog’s health, age, size, coat thickness, and more, the ASPCA warns no dog should be left outdoors amid below-freezing temperatures.
More:Feeling the winter blues? Here’s how experts say you can change your mood
What are signs it’s too cold out for your pet?
Experts with Cornell University and PetMD point out symptoms that suggest your pet may be experiencing dangerously cold weather, including:
- Shivering
- Whining
- Anxiousness
- Holding up one or more paws
- Reluctant to walk
Bundling up four-legged friends in the cold
Amid Michigan’s frigid cold and snow, some pet owners may opt to swaddle their dogs in warm pet clothing. Pet stores and online retailers alike, such as Petco, Chewy and The Dog Outdoors, offer dog sweaters and jackets in a variety of styles and colors.
How much snow is Michigan seeing this week?
A winter storm brought nearly a foot of snow in some regions across the state Wednesday and Thursday, per the National Weather Service. More snow is on the way this weekend, the weather agency says, with up to 8 inches expected in some areas.
What health risks do pets face amid severe cold?
Similar to humans, cats and dogs face the risk of frostbite and hypothermia if exposed to severe cold for prolonged periods, according to the American Veterinary Medical Association. In light of this, it’s crucial to shorten walks and avoid leaving pets unattended outdoors for prolonged time periods.
These conditions can impact a dog’s ears, paws and tail tips and require immediate medical treatment, per the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center.
Dogs with thick, double-layered coats tend to be more resistant to cold, while dogs with thin coats are more susceptible to cold, according to PetMD. It’s also important to keep in mind that puppies, sick dogs and older dogs face a greater risk in the cold, as it’s more difficult for them to regulate their body temperature.
What if your dog won’t go outdoors in the cold?
While it’s important to avoid leaving your pet unattended outdoors, dogs may still need to go out to take care of business.
Depending on the dog size and breed, your pet may be able to head outdoors to relieve themselves for a few minutes. However, if it’s too cold outdoors for your dog, consider training them to use indoor pee pads amid severe winter weather, Hill’s Pet Nutrition recommends.
More:Stuck in the winter doldrums? See what there is to do in February in Michigan
How can you protect your pet from the cold?
There are steps you can follow to protect your pet amid the colder temps, per experts with the ASPCA and the AVMA. Here are some tips to follow to keep your pets safe during severe winter cold:
- Keep pets indoors. If pets must go outdoors, avoid prolonged exposure.
- Dress dogs in a sweater or a coat.
- Wash and towel dry your pet when they come indoors.
- Keep anti-freeze and de-icers away from pets.
- Feed your pets well, consider a little extra.
- Avoid ice when outdoors.
The Lansing State Journal contributed.
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
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