How to keep your pets safe amid dangerously cold winter weather

Cold temperatures, ice, and gusty winds can be just as dangerous for pets as they are for humans.

Pet owners should take steps to keep their animals safe from dangerous winter weather. Freezing temperatures can have a “significant negative impact” on animal’s health, which could include hypothermia, frostbite, and death, according to Michigan Humane.

—> Snow showers, dangerously low wind chills Sunday in Metro Detroit

The shelter is suggesting pet owners do the following to keep their animals safe during cold weather:

• Bring pets indoors to a climate-controlled space;

• Limit time outdoors to bathroom breaks and provide sweaters or coats, removing them once back indoors;

• Make sure they have access to clean water that is not frozen; and

• If you are using a dog house, make sure it meets standards set by the state of Michigan for appropriate shelter.

Michigan laws require animals to be provided with adequate care including shelter that offers protection from the elements. This means dogs must be kept inside a house or be offered a doghouse with a roof and dry bedding.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association, a pet’s tolerance to cold weather varies depending on their coat, body fat stores, activity level, and overall health. You will likely need to shorten your dog’s walks to protect both of you from cold temperatures.

If your dog has a short coat, consider putting a sweater on them when they go outside. If you do take walks, make sure to clean off their feet when you get home in case they walked through de-icing products.

If your pet is whining, shivering, seems anxious, slows down, or stops moving, you should get them to a warm place immediately. Those are signs of hypothermia. Frostbite can be difficult to notice on dogs and you might not notice for a few days.