SUFFOLK COUNTY

SOCIETY FOR THE PREVENTION OF CRUELTY TO ANIMALS

PRESS RELEASE

December 18, 2007

Suffolk County SPCA                                                                     CONTACT:  CHIEF ROY GROSS

Your Local SPCA Serving Suffolk County                                                        631-382-SPCA (7722)   

363 Route 111                                                                                                                             

Smithtown, NY11787 

PROTECT YOUR PETS FROM THE EXTREME COLD WEATHER

During the winter, animals feel the same harsh winds, snow, and freezing temperatures as we do.  Animals need extra protection to survive the winter too.

If you truly love your pets, you'll make sure they're safe and sound during the brutally cold months of winter.  With the chilly season officially here, it's time to be sure you're prepared to take proper care of your furry friends.

Always keep ID tags on pets, because animals can get lost during the winter months.  More pets are lost in the winter than any other time of the year.  Pets lose their ability to scent their way home in snow and ice conditions.  In addition, never leave pets unattended in the car without heat.  Animals can freeze to death very quickly, and by [allowing this to happen], the pet owner becomes just as irresponsible as those who leave pets unattended in a car during summer's unbearable heat."

The other basic rules are as follows:

Keep Cats Indoors:  This prevents injury, frostbite, hypothermia, and death.

Be Alert to Frostbite:  Skin can turn red, white or gray and scaly.  If you suspect frostbite, contact your vet immediately.

Always Walk Dogs on a Leash:  Dogs can become disoriented or lost.  Roads are often dangerous during snow conditions due to snowplow piles and ice.

Be Aware of Sheltered Cats and Wildlife:  Outdoor cats and other animals will often seek shelter beneath the hood of a car and can be killed by fans or belts.  Bang on the hood or blow your horn before starting the car.

Be Aware of Exposure Time:  Dogs who are ill, old, very young, or shorthaired cannot endure prolonged exposure to winter weather.  Take them out only to relieve themselves.  Coats or sweaters can help avoid problems for dogs that like to play in the snow.  Many dogs need boots in cold weather, regardless of coat length.  If your dog frequently lifts up his paws, whines or stops on his walks, his feet are uncomfortably cold and may need dog booties for his paws.

Keep Pets Dry:  Never take your dog or cat out after a bath unless they are completely dry.

Have a Cleanup Routine:  Keep a towel and maybe moist wipes by the door to clean dogs' feet of salt, anti-freeze, and other harmful toxins.  Road salt can irritate or burn, as well as cause vomiting and in some pets can even cause seizures.  Antifreeze has a sweet, attractive smell to pets and can be deadly if ingested.  Keep paws, bellies, and legs clean to avoid problems.

Keep Pets Warm:  Always keep beds slightly elevated and away from cold drafts.

Dog House:  Dogs left outdoors in inclement weather must be provided with shelter appropriate to breed, physical condition and the climate.  Minimum standards for adequate shelter include a permanent structure with a waterproof roof, structural soundness, and sufficient insulation to protect from inclement weather, space to make normal postural movements, freedom from excessive dirt, trash, or waste, and a clean surrounding area that does not threaten the well-being.

www.suffolkcountyspca.org

The Suffolk County SPCA is not affiliated with, a subdivision of, or funded by any other local, state or national humane organization.