With snow and Arctic-cold temperatures hitting Colorado this week, take the proper precautions and protect your pets.
Colorado is getting quite a bit of snowfall over the next 24 hours, as we have two cold fronts hit. With freezing temperatures affecting most of the Front Range, Denver Animal Protection has issued a warning to residents to protect their pets from the severe elements.
The best way to keep your pets safe is to avoid outdoor exposure for lengths of time. However, if pets must be outside for longer durations, Denver Animal Protection says that, in accordance with the City of Denver's ordinance, pets must have adequate outdoor shelter (i.e., doghouse, porch area, etc.) that protects the animal from the harsh weather.
In addition, it's recommended that adding a "doggie door" to a garage or covered area gives your pets an added layer of protection from the cold. It's also a safe practice for drivers to bang on their hoods prior to driving due to the possibility of stray cats looking for refuge in warm engines.
Failure to protect pets could be deadly for the animals. And owners could face a Cruelty to Animals or Animal Neglect charge, up to a $999 fine, and/or a year in jail.
Below is a list of pet safety tips, provided by the Denver Dumb Friends League:
- Make sure all pets have a warm place to sleep in the house, off the floor, and away from drafts. Kittens and older cats will appreciate a heated pad or bed (readily available at pet supply stores).
- Don’t leave tiny, short-haired, or very young or old dogs outside without supervision. Warm sweaters or doggy coats will keep them comfortable on walks. Long-haired, larger dogs and those with double coats (like the Nordic breeds) may enjoy the cold and snow, but they, too, should live primarily indoors with the family.
- Dogs that spend time outdoors need plenty of fresh water available. They can’t burn calories without water, and if they can’t burn calories, they can’t keep warm. Also, use a tip-resistant, ceramic or hard plastic water bowl rather than a metal one; when the temperature is low, a dog’s tongue can stick and freeze to metal.
- Keep your dog’s coat well-groomed. Matted fur won’t protect her from the cold.
- After a walk, wipe her feet, legs, and stomach area to prevent ingestion of salt or dangerous chemicals. For your own walkways, use a pet-friendly ice-melt product.
- Never let dogs off-leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Make sure they are always wearing ID tags and are microchipped for an extra measure of protection.
- Check your garage and driveway for antifreeze and other chemicals. Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that attracts animals. Wipe up any spills right away. Better yet, use pet-safe antifreeze, which is made with propylene glycol. If ingested in small amounts, it will not
hurt pets, wildlife, or your family. - Never leave a pet alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.
- If there are outdoor cats in your area, bang loudly on your car hood or honk the horn before starting the engine. In their search to stay warm, outdoor cats often take refuge next to a warm car engine or tire.
- Keep snow from piling up high next to your fence. A packed snowdrift will provide a boost for dogs to escape the confines of your yard.
- Consider the amount of exercise your dogs receive during colder weather and adjust their food supply accordingly. Inside and lazy? Less food. Outside and active? More food may be needed to produce more body heat. Consult your veterinarian to be sure.
Learn more about Denver’s Animal Protection ordinances at denveranimalshelter.org.
