Animal Shelter Gives Tips for Animal Safety in Cold Weather

With an arctic cold front in the near forecast, and temperatures predicted to drop below freezing, the San Marcos Regional Animal Shelter would like to provide tips to keep animals safe in frosty weather:

Bring them inside: Just because your pet is covered in fur doesn’t mean that they are less susceptible to cold temperatures. The best way to protect your pet from cold weather is to bring your pet indoors when the temperature reaches below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Are your pets not used to being indoors? House them in a bathroom or laundry room lined with blankets or towels, or consider purchasing a kennel to keep them snug and secure.

Understand their limits: Even if the temperature is above freezing, consider your pet’s age, size, fur length and any medical conditions that may make them more susceptible to extreme temperatures. Take your pet for shorter walks to limit exposure to the elements, and carefully observe their behavior for whining, shivering, lethargy, or weakness, which are signs of hypothermia.

Provide adequate shelter: If bringing your pets indoors is not an option, (though we strongly encourage it!) be sure to provide your pet with a warm, dry and safe shelter. Make sure they have access to fresh water, and change it frequently to avoid freezing. The shelter must have three sides, a floor and a roof, must face away from the oncoming wind, and must be off of the ground to avoid mud or water. The shelter must be lined with hay or clean, dry bedding so your pet can burrow for warmth. Heating pads are encouraged as long as they have temperature control settings, and you can properly maintain safety guidelines to prevent electrical shock or fires.

Maintain your pet’s health: Frequently check your pet’s paws for signs of frostbite and be sure to avoid ice or snow during their walks. Clothe your short-haired and senior pets in sweaters or coats to keep them warm, keep your pet clean of mud or mattes to ensure their fur is helping regulate their temperature, and carefully observe their behavior for whining, shivering, lethargy, or weakness, which are signs of hypothermia.

Be prepared: Severe weather can often limit or prevent leaving your home, so prepare with your pet in mind. Have enough food, water, and medication for your pet to last at least 5 days.

Check under the hood: Bang on the hood of your car before getting in and starting the engine. Cats have been known to curl up in car engines to stay warm.

According to HSC Chapter 821 Subchapter B: Disposition of Cruelly Treated Animals and Subchapter D: Unlawful Restraint of a Dog, and the City of San Marcos Code of Ordinance Sec. 6.011, it is illegal to keep a pet tethered or outside without adequate shelter, in temperatures below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. Failure to provide adequate shelter is considered a Class C Misdemeanor for neglect, resulting in a $50-$500 fine. On the event that the animal expires it is considered animal cruelty, which is a state jail felony.

The shelter is accepting donations of blankets and bedding, and will have a limited amount to hand out to families in need. Hay can be found at Tractor Supply and Feed Stores. If you have any questions about regulations and how to best prepare for freezing temperatures, contact Animal Control at 512.805.2655. Information on recognizing, caring for, and preventing frostbite can be found at: http://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/common-emergencies/e_dg_frostbite