A wind chill advisory in effect for much of the region through 11 a.m. tomorrow morning. The National Weather Service predicts wind chill values to bottom out in the -15F to -22F range.
That’s too cold to leave Fido outdoors.
Here are cold weather tips for your pets:
1. Antifreeze, even in tiny qualities, can be fatal. Better yet use antifreeze made with propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol.
2. Bang on your car hood before you start your car. Cats and other small animals may curl up under the hood for warmth.
3. Don’t use metal bowls outside. Most of us found out when we were children that we shouldn’t put our tongues on cold metal.
4. Outdoors, use heated bowls and birdbath warmers to keep water unfrozen.
5. A doghouse should be off the ground, facing away from north with a protective flap on the door, furnished with hay or some other warm material and large enough for the dog to turn around in, but small enough for it to retain body heat.
6. When the temperature falls below freezing bring your pets inside. Cats should be brought inside for the winter. Garages aren’t warm enough for them. They may fuss to go outside, but don’t give in.
7. Small dogs should be outfitted with little sweaters before going outside. Booties are also a good idea.
8. Ice melt and salt can irritate paws, so wipe the paws if it has snowed.
9. Animals who go outside may need more food in the winter. Inside animals may want it, but they don’t need it.
10. Animals may lose their sense of direction in the snow and be unable to find their way home.
11. Outdoor animals need more food when it’s cold.
12. When the weather moderates, take your dog for a walk. It will be good for both of you!