CNBNews

Hi William​,

An arctic blast of frigid weather that arrived in the Pacific Northwest on Tuesday is now unfolding across parts of the nation’s midsection, bringing a dangerous mix of sub-zero temperatures, fierce winds, and snow. As temperatures begin to plunge below freezing, BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital is reminding owners to keep their pets safe.  

Follow these expert veterinary tips to keep pets safe amid an artic blast.

ERIKA AND LACEY CLEARY

1. Keep pets indoors. Do not leave your pets outside or in a vehicle unattended during freezing weather. Consider shortening walks and limiting their time outside. Owners of senior or arthritic pets should be particularly cautious when going on walks, as these pets are more prone to falls on slippery surfaces. Pets with preexisting health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease or hormonal imbalances are more susceptible to cold weather as these conditions can cause temperature regulation issues. If you are unsure of your pet’s temperature limits, consult with your veterinarian. 
2. Layer them up. If your pet has a short coat, is young, old, ill, or thin, or has a history of intolerance to cold weather, consider putting them in a sweater or coat. Remember that wet sweaters and coats can make your pet colder. Be sure to dry coats or sweaters after each walk or keep a few on hand to alternate when one becomes damp. 
3. Watch for clues. Pets are very communicative. They will tell you if they are uncomfortable or cold, so be sure to watch for behavioral cues. Dogs who are cold may shiver and shake, lift their paws up off the ground one at a time, whimper, or try to get inside.  
4. Wipe and dry after walks. Deicers, antifreeze, and other toxic chemicals may be picked up on your pet’s fur and paws during walks. To reduce the risk of ingestion, use a warm damp cloth to clean off your pet from paw to tail after each walk. If you think your dog may have ingested deicer, antifreeze, or another harmful chemical, immediately contact the Pet Poison Hotline by calling (855) 764-7661. A small fee may apply. 
5. Be prepared. Create a pet disaster/emergency kit that includes a seven-day supply of pet food, water, potty pads (for those pets who may have difficulty going outside during severe weather) or cat litter, and medication. Be sure to include a list of local 24/7 emergency veterinary hospitals (include phone numbers and addresses both digitally and on paper should the power go down). Learn more about building your pet emergency kit. 
6. Beware of car hazards. Before heading on the road, be sure to tap the hood of the car or honk the horn to protect any stray cats or wildlife that may have taken refuge underneath.  

If you would like to learn more about how to keep pets safe during an artic blast, please let me know. I would be happy to connect you with a local veterinarian for interview and/or written commentary. 

Best,

Laura

About BluePearl Specialty and Emergency Pet Hospital 

Founded in 1996, BluePearl Pet Hospital is one of the largest specialty and emergency veterinary practices in the U.S. today. BluePearl has more than 110 hospitals in 29 states that together employ more than 8,000 Associates. Each year, our compassionate teams provide high-quality care for more than 1.1 million pets and their families. BluePearl clinicians also participate in clinical studies to discover new treatments and procedures that improve pet health. As part of the Mars Veterinary Health family of brands, BluePearl is committed to its purpose — A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS® — because pets make a better world for us.

Most BluePearl hospitals are open day and night, seven-days-a-week, and during holidays. Find a local BluePearl here.