If you can’t be outside, neither can your pets. That’s what Susan Levy with the Somerset County Animal Response Team said. While she explained that there are important cold weather suggestions for pet owners, there are also state laws that apply in the frigid temperatures our region is facing.
“According to the Pennsylvania law, [pets] can be tethered outside up to 30 minutes at temperatures below 32 degrees. But with these very low temperatures, that’s entirely too long for most of our house dogs. They’re just not acclimated to the weather, and they don’t have the kind of fur that they need,” said Levy.
If you have an indoor/outdoor cat, Levy said you should try to have a litter box or shelter that’s protected from the wind and cold. In very low temperatures, she said a pet could get hypothermia or frostbite. If you notice any of these signs, Levy said you should go to the vet immediately:
“They’ll start to get lethargic. They’ll be shivering. You may see some changes in their paws or their ears. You can start to see some real signs that they have had too much cold,” she explained.
If you have a smaller or older dog, Levy said that you should be especially careful about how much time is spent in the cold. If you still want to make sure your pet is active, she said you can limit your time walking outside and try something new indoors.
“I do a lot of training inside with my dogs during this weather. I mean, it’s a great opportunity. We’re all stuck inside with this snow. It’s a really good time to maybe teach them some new tricks or teach them some obedience. And they really enjoy the time together,” said Levy.
Levy also said if you notice salt on your pet’s paws after they’re outside, wipe it off as soon as possible.
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