Remembering pet care when the air gets icy

bittercoldFrigid temps of the upcoming winter months mean that pet owners should reconsider how long they’re leaving pets outside.

Even dogs that are bred for cold can’t spend too long in the frigid air.

That’s according to Knox County Humane Society Director Erin Buckmaster, who tells WGIL that she’s more concerned with pets whose owners chain them in the yard, than she is with strays.

“The strays that are around there, they usually have a shelter to go to somewhere,” says Buckmaster. “There is the no-chaining ordinance in Galesburg where you can’t leave a pet outside for more than six hours over a period of 24 hours. Unfortunately, common sense doesn’t always work with people, so if you see a pet in danger, I encourage you to call the shelter or your local authorities.”

Walks in the cold are safe for dogs but among other thing to lookout for; salt.

Some varieties can get caught in paws and cause burning and sores.

“If you are going to walk your dog outside, booties would be good, especially with the salt and as long as they are waterproof.”

Also popular are dog sweaters but ultimately Buckmaster says to use the rule of thumb that “if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet.”

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