CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. (CLARKSVILLENOW) – Frosty weather and cold temperatures have arrived in Clarksville-Montgomery County and taking steps to keep your pets safe during these conditions is essential to their health.

David Kaske, director of Montgomery County Animal Control reminds pet owners that cold weather affects all animals differently based on their breed, coat, size and age, and pet owners must take the necessary precautions to ensure their pets are properly cared for.

“Do not leave your pets outdoors unattended during the winter months, especially when the temperature falls to below freezing,” Kaske said. “Pets, just like humans, can fall victim to hypothermia very quickly during colder weather.  Colder weather also affects other aspects of your pet’s health such as magnifying chronic conditions such as arthritis, hip dysplasia, and other physical ailments.  The paws of your pet can also succumb to freezing temperatures especially if they are left exposed to frozen and wet surfaces.  A pet’s ear tips are also quickly susceptible to frostbite during cold temperatures.”

As the cold temperatures ascend upon the city and county, Kaske offers the following tips.

Water – Dogs need to have access to fresh drinkable water at all times while they are outdoors.  This entails making sure the water set outside for your pet is not frozen or iced over.  Also, be sure to use non-metal water bowls to help prevent freezing or your pet’s tongue becoming frozen to the bowl.  Frequently change out the water to ensure your pet has fresh water at all times, stagnant water, even in winter, can become contaminated quickly.

Chemicals 

Pets can become exposed to multiple chemicals during the winter, including anti-freeze, deicers, and road or walkway salt.  Anti-freeze draws pets in due to its sweet smell and taste but is extremely deadly to your pet.

Cleaning spills quickly and storing antifreeze in sealed containers is important to avoid pet exposures.   Deicers and salt used to melt snow off of vehicles, driveways, sidewalks, and the road have a chemical compound that can cause painful burns to pet’s feet, tongue and mouth.

If your pet goes for frequent walks or is outdoors for an extended period of time, be sure to wipe down and wash your pet’s feet, legs, and coat when they come in.  Getting an inexpensive set of paw boots if you are walking your pet frequently the boots not only protect your pet’s feet from these chemicals but also helps insulate them as well.

Snow 

When it snows,  limit your pet’s time outside in the snow.

Pets with longer coats especially on their feet can develop icing on their feet which can lead to frostbite as chunks of snow and ice buildup in these areas and on their fur.  If left outdoors the snow can also accelerate hypothermia and other conditions that your pet is exposed to so please limit their time outside.

Keeping Warm and Shelter 

If your pet will be outside for an extended period of time, which is not recommended, access to a proper shelter that will protect your pet from the elements is necessary.

Shelters need to have a pitched roof, four sides one with an opening providing access, a floor, and should be insulated using straw or hay. Blankets are not suggested as they tend to freeze when they become wet.

Keep shelters in a location to reduce your pet’s exposure to rain, snow, and wind to aid in providing additional protection.

“We simply encourage pet owners to not leave your pets outside,” Kaske said. “It is the responsible thing to do and will keep your pets happy this winter. ”

If you observe a welfare concern with a pet, or if you have any questions regarding Montgomery County Regulations, pet adoption, or volunteering at our shelter, please call (931) 648-5750 or visit us on Facebook and Instagram.