MICHIGAN, USA — Low temperatures, high winds and icy walk-ways aren't just hazardous for people, but also for pets.
"Pets are certainly at risk for hypothermia and frostbite as well. So we want to limit their exposure," said the president of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), Lori Teller.
She is sharing some tips on how you can make sure your pets stay safe during a winter storm.
"It's important to recognize that ice is dangerous, not just for us," said Teller. "But it can also be very dangerous for our pets too."
"They can slip and fall on it too. Especially if you have an older arthritic animal," said Teller.
But if your furry friend needs a bathroom break or just needs to stretch their legs, there are tips to keep them warm when outdoors.
"Sometimes just having some little booties that you can put on their feet can be a big help," she said. "Keeping the hair inside and around their paws dry can help as well."
If your pet does need to get some exercise, she has some creative ideas you can try.
"You can set up an obstacle course. And maybe at the end, there's a treat, so they have to figure out how to get through an obstacle course," Teller said. "Just use some boxes and pillows and things like that."
Even if you don't have a pet, you may find an animal outside that needs help. Teller says to bring it inside and warm it up if you can. If the animal looks sick, she recommends you contact your local veterinarian immediately.
"The best thing to do at that point, if the animals not looking well, is seek veterinary attention, whether that's with your own veterinarian, or one of the local shelters, where they can really do a full evaluation of the pet and determine what's going to be most appropriate for it," Teller said. "They can check for a microchip and other ID that may be apparent and try to reunite that pet with with their family."
And before you start up your car, make sure to honk your horn or knock on your hood, because cats will curl up next to the engine for warmth.
"You really don't want to start your car with an animal trapped in there, that can definitely cause an injury and can be traumatic for you as well," Teller said.
For more information, the AVMA has resources here.
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