While its important for people to stay warm during cold days, its especially important for pets as well.
Even though pets, such as dogs have fur coats, they could still suffer from exposure just like humans.
Elizabeth Dighton, Manager of the Williams Lake and District SPCA, said that owners should be aware of sidewalk salt, antifreeze, frostbite and hypothermia. A way you can prevent frostbite and hypothermia is by using a winter jacket or covering for the dog, as well as shoes/booties to protect the paws.
For outdoor cats, they’ll seek warm places for shelter such as a warm car engine, which could be extremely dangerous. BC SPCA strongly encourages people to keep their cats indoors, however, drivers can also “think and thump” before starting their engine.
If you have to keep domestic or farm animals outside, BC SPCA asks people ensure that they have access to shelter that’s off the ground, provides protection from the wind, cold and dampness, and is properly insulated.
For those who find a lost animal in the cold, Dighton says that you should look for identification, post on social media, search the neighbourhood, contact the SPCA, and if you find the owner, to update everyone the animal has been found.
For more information on pet safety during the cold, you can check BC SPCA’s website here.
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