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Tips to protect pets from frigid temperatures

People across Central Pennsylvania are waking up to another cold day and with the frigid temperatures here to stay, it’s important to remember that if it’s too ...

People across Central Pennsylvania are waking up to another cold day and with the frigid temperatures here to stay, it’s important to remember that if it’s too cold outside for us, it’s probably too cold outside for our pets as well.

Animals face the same dangers as people when it comes to the cold such as frostbite and hypothermia.

Experts say the best advice is to keep pets inside as much as possible but if they do have to go out, dress them appropriately.

Long-haired or full coated dogs should be fine with their own natural coats but smaller, short haired dogs should wear a sweater or coat for protection.

Melissa Smith with the York County SPCA says if animals do have to stay outside they need to have a proper enclosure that they can fit in.

“Facing it away from the wind and bedding is so important,” Smith said. “Not blankets because it freezes. So straw is the most appropriate bedding; a flap over it to protect from the wind but certainly when it's dangerously cold like this, even an outdoor pet should be brought into an out building where they are not subject to the elements.”

Smith says it’s also important to make sure animals have access to fresh water that is not frozen.

In snowy conditions, pet owners should also check their paws after going outside to make sure salt or ice melt is not irritating the skin.

Lastly, experts say if you see a pet being kept outside in the cold for long periods of time, speak up and contact local authorities.

For more tips on how to protect your pets in the cold, click here.

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