The National Weather Service issued a warning for heavy rain with gusty winds and then freezing temperatures throughout the weekend.
The Suffolk County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) notes that the The National Weather Service issued a warning for heavy rain with gusty winds and then freezing temperatures throughout the weekend.
During this extreme cold, animals experience the same high winds and freezing temperatures as we do. Animals also need extra protection to survive the winter storm. With the extreme cold in the area, it’s important to remember to bring your pets inside.
the The SPCA asks pMake sure they are safe and sound during these extreme weather conditions. With a winter storm approaching, it’s time to make sure we’re ready to take care of our furry friends.
Always keep identification tags on pets, as pets can get lost during a winter storm. More pets are lost in winter than at any other time of year. Pets may lose their ability to feel their way home in snowy and icy conditions.
Also, never leave pets unattended in the unheated car. Animals can freeze to death very quickly, and in [allowing this to happen]the pet owner becomes just as irresponsible as those who leave their pets unattended in a car during the unbearable heat of summer.
The other basic rules are as follows:
- Keep cats indoors: This prevents injury, frostbite, hypothermia and death.
- Watch out for frostbite: the skin may turn red, white or gray and scaly. If you suspect frostbite, contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Always walk dogs on a leash: dogs can be disoriented or lost. The roads are often dangerous when it snows due to piles of snow plows and ice.
- Be aware of protected cats and wildlife: Cats and other outdoor animals often seek shelter under the hood of a car and can be killed by fans or belts. Knock on the hood or honk your horn before starting the car.
- Be aware of exposure time: Sick, elderly, very young, or short-haired dogs cannot withstand prolonged exposure to winter conditions. Take them out only to relieve themselves. Coats or sweaters can help avoid problems for dogs that like to play in the snow. Many dogs need boots in the winter, regardless of the length of their coat. If your dog frequently lifts his paws, whines, or stops during his walks, his feet are uncomfortably cold and may need dog booties for his paws.
- Keep pets dry: Never take your dog or cat out after a bath unless they are completely dry.
- Have a cleaning routine: Keep a towel and maybe wet wipes by the door to clean dogs’ feet of salt, antifreeze, and other harmful toxins. Road salt can irritate or burn, cause vomiting, and even cause seizures in some pets. Antifreeze has a sweet, pet-friendly odor and can be fatal if ingested. Keep paws, belly and legs clean to avoid problems.
- Keep Pets Warm: Always keep beds slightly elevated and away from cold drafts.
- If you have rabbits that live outdoors, make sure they have a warm, dry hutch with plenty of bedding that’s sheltered from the wind. Water is also important because it is an additional food. Cover the hatch with a tarp.
- During this winter storm, bring your pet inside.
- Don’t forget that animals are cold like you.
- In Suffolk County, you cannot tie, leash, secure, tether, enclosure or confine a dog outdoors when the temperature is below 32° Fahrenheit.
Remember that this is the law and it will be enforced! If you are cold, so is your pet.
“Protecting the animals of Suffolk County is our only job! »
0 Comments