Red Cross Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe During Frosty Weather

Punxsutawney Phil Says Six More Weeks of Winter in 2017

By Clarice Nassif Ransom, Volunteer

Each year on February 2, Americans celebrate Groundhog Day, where the most notable groundhog, Pennsylvania’s Punxsutawney Phil, emerges from his burrow at Gobbler’s Knob to “predict” the length of winter. The tradition, dating back to the 19th century, says if Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow, there will be six more weeks of winter. If not, spring will arrive early.

Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow this year – so, if custom is correct, we can expect winter to last for a while.

To keep your animals safe from frosty weather, the Red Cross has practical tips to help you know what to do, including a Pet First Aid App with valuable information that can be downloaded on many mobile devices.

Tips to Keep Pets Safe When Frosty Weather Strikes

Pets enrich our lives, are seen as family members, and depend on us for food, safety, shelter, and general well-being. Winter’s cold temperatures, gusty winds, and wet sleet, snow and rain can be devastating to your animals. Salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate your pet’s paws, cause extreme pain, and be life-threatening if ingested. Here is how you can help your animals stay safe.

• Bring animals inside during cold winter weather, if possible
• Move livestock to sheltered areas and make sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water
• If animals are outside, make sure their access to food and water is not blocked by a snow drift, ice or other obstacles 
• Keep a dry towel near the door and wipe off your pet immediately after you come in from the cold. Pay particular attention to your pet’s paws and in between their toes so you can dry and wipe off chemical residue
• Do not shave your pet down to the skin in winter as their coat provides warmth
• Petroleum jelly and booties can help protect your pet’s paws
• Ensure your indoor animals have been fed and have enough water for hydration
• Provide a warm space for your animal to sleep away from drafty windows and doors, and if possible, off of the floor
• Download the Pet First Aid App and get critical information at your fingertips