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CINCINNATI — Freezing temperatures can quickly become deadly for pets.
Knowing how to help our four-legged friends can be the difference between life and death.
“One really big key is if it’s too cold for you, it’s too cold for them,” Owner of Queen City Veterinary Clinic, Larry Keller, said.
Keller shared tips on ways you can keep your pet safe and signs you need to worry about.
“The biggest things you worry about hypothermia, if they’re shaking, if they’re looking for a place to hide and get warm, that’s a sign you need to go ahead and bring them inside,” Keller explained.
Similar to people, pets’ tolerance to the cold can vary based on their size, age and coat.
The American Veterinary Medical Association said it’s important to look out for signs like whining, shivering, if your pet seems weak or starts seeking warm places to burrow.
“If you have a dog that’s been inside the entire winter and you decide I want to take them for a walk, I wouldn’t stay more than five or ten minutes outside,” Keller warned.
Another way to protect a pet during the winter is to outfit them with small boots, a sweater or a dog coat.
If they’ve been outside, wipe them down. That’s not only to keep them dry but to remove any de-icing products they may collect.
Keller said if travelling with a pet, make sure you don’t leave them in a car for a long period.
“Leaving your dog in the car, people think about it during the summer because your car gets real hot, but think about it you drive to Kroger for 15 minutes, then you come outside and get in your car it’s cold, the same thing happens to your dog,” Keller continued.
And lastly, be prepared by talking to a veterinarian about anything your pet may need during the cold weather.
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Travis Hicks
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