With dangerously low temperatures and weather elements sweeping across northern Michigan, it’s always important to keep our dogs, cats and even outdoor animals including wildlife and farm animals safe. This includes everything from making sure animals are not kept outdoors during the dangerously low temperatures, especially cats and dogs that are not built for the outdoor elements.
Molly Tamulevich, Michigan State Director of the Humane Society of the United States has some key points for keeping dogs, cats and all animals safe during these conditions. Starting with smaller animals like dogs and cats, we want to make sure the animals are not let out for long periods of time since frostbite and hypothermia can set in during extreme cold snaps. Likewise, make sure you wipe off your dog or cat’s paws when they inside to protect their skin since things like rock salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet’s feet.
If you do have a cat that lives outdoors, make sure they have the proper housing including a plastic bin with hay and the proper insulation that will stay dry. Also, consider heated water bowls for dogs, cats, horses and wildlife.
In Michigan, if you see an animal that is not being properly cared for in extreme weather conditions it is always best to contact law enforcement or your local animal control immediately and provide as many specific details as possible. It is a crime to leave an animal outside without the proper food and shelter.
You can always contact the Humane Society of the Untied States as a reference or guide with these details. The organization is a not law enforcement, but the animal welfare experts will gladly provide the information necessary to keep animals safe and secure. for more info on reporting animal neglect.
For more tips on how to protect our pets from the cold, .
If you have outdoor cats, are some ways you can make them comfortable when the temps drop.
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