Tips to Keep Pets Safe in Cold Winter Weather

Cold winter weather is moving into the Twin Cities this week, with wind chills dipping below zero. That means in addition to keeping yourself warm, it's important to keep your pets safe and warm too.

The Animal Rescue League offers several steps to keeping your animals safe during cold winter weather:

• If possible, bring pets indoors to a garage or basement.
• Bundle up your pet in a jacket or sweater during their walk, especially if their coat is made of hair (vs. fur).
• Before you start your engine, look under and pound on your vehicle’s hood to wake a napping cat trying to keep warm.
• Never leave your pet alone inside your vehicle, which won’t stay warm for long after your engine has turned off.
• If your pet must remain outdoors, make sure they have a winter-friendly shelter that has the following components: three-sided enclosure, stands off the ground, contains generous amounts of bedding, and plenty of un-frozen drinking water. Make sure that the entrance faces away from heavy winds.

Image via National Weather Service