As negative wind chills linger in Milwaukee through the end of the week, the Milwaukee Area Domestic Animal Control Commission is urging people to take steps to keep their pets safe.
“It’s crucial to protect our pets from the extreme cold,” MADACC wrote on Facebook Tuesday. “While they may seem tougher than us, they cannot handle these temperatures for long.”
In addition to cold exposure, there are several other wintertime hazards that can harm animals. Here’s what to know about keeping your pet safe this winter.
What temperature is too cold to leave dogs outside?
In temperatures below 20 degrees, dogs can develop hypothermia or frostbite and should not be left outside, according to MADACC.
In extreme cold or negative wind chills, dogs should only be let outside briefly to go to the bathroom, and cats, even outdoor-loving ones, should be kept inside.
Below 32 degrees, dogs that are small, senior or have small coats shouldn’t be left outside for too long. Below 40 degrees, some cold-averse dogs may feel uncomfortable, and above 40 degrees should be comfortable for most dogs.
Protect your pet’s paws
Salt and other ice melting chemicals can irritate your pet’s paws or their mouth if they lick their paws, according to the American Red Cross.
You can use a damp towel to wipe your pet’s paws before they have a chance to lick them, as well as using petroleum jelly or booties to protect sensitive paws.
Beware of antifreeze
Antifreeze is a deadly poison for cats and dogs. Wipe up any antifreeze spills and store the substance out of your pet’s reach.
Check your engine for cats
In extreme cold, outdoor and feral cats often take shelter inside vehicle engines — but this can be very harmful to them if and when the car is started. To protect any sheltering cats, bang on your hood or honk your horn before starting your engine.
For those helping stray cats, MADACC advised against using cloth items in outdoor shelters, since they can become damp, freeze, and make the shelter even colder. Straw is the safest and warmest option for strays.
More:MADACC has received more than 100 dogs in the past week. They need help, shelter says
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