Keep Pets Inside During Cold Weather

The Marin Humane Society is urging pet guardians to keep their animal companions indoors during this week’s cold-weather system. Overnight temperatures in the North Bay were expected to dip below freezing.

“Prolonged exposure to cold weather can result in significant medical issues for our companion animals as well as general discomfort and distress of not being able to get warm,” says Belinda Evans, director of veterinary services for the Marin Humane Society. “Puppies and kittens as well as older pets are especially sensitive to temperature changes.”

In addition to keeping pets safely indoors, MHS offers the following cold weather pet tips:

• Do not leave pets unattended in vehicles during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator, holding in the cold.
• Animals may seek warmth under hoods of cars. If there are outdoor animals (domestic or wild) in your neighborhood, bang loudly or check under the car hood before starting the engine.
• Provide pets with a warm resting place indoors away from drafts. Pet beds outfitted with a warm blanket or pillow will be much appreciated by your animal companions.
• Consider outfitting short-haired and older dogs with a coat or sweater for better protection.
• Ensure that outdoor water sources are checked frequently as they can freeze and prevent access to water.
• Pets found suffering from the effects of cold weather should be taken immediately to a veterinarian.
• If you are concerned about an animal left outside in the severe cold, please contact the Marin Humane Society—or your local animal shelter—at 415.883.4621.