Tips to help your pets in the cold

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) – Many know of the risks pets could face in the warm weather, but cold weather can also create issues for your furry companions.

“The biggest concern is the paw pads,” BrandyLynn Flaigg, department manager of animal control services and enforcement at the Humane Society of the Black Hills, said. “So, if you can cover their feet up so they’re not actually on the ice, that’s how their paw pads are going to get frostbite. If it’s a short hair dog, it should not be outside for more than 10 to 20 minutes.”

Flaigg added if a short haired dog is outside, their shelter should be covered from all angles, including the door and should have bedding as well.

You don’t have to worry about all dogs, though, as most arctic breeds, including huskies, are made for the cold conditions.

“When they’re double coat breeds, they even have extra fur in their paws too to protect the pads,” Flaigg said. “Even if you see them curled up in a ball tucking their feet, a lot of people think that’s a sign they are super cold and that is not the case. So, they are covered and they are okay.”

Flaigg said her call load hasn’t been as big during this cold stretch, but she said calls normally come in during the in between cold weather stage.

“Essentially, if it’s, I even have a chart, if it’s below 42, then probably don’t keep your dog outside very long.”

If you do see a stray animal or a lost pet, Flaigg said it’s best to get the animal contained while calling the Humane Society to come pick up the animal.

“Average response time is about 10 minutes depending on where the animal is,” Flaigg said. “A lot of times it keeps running, I get to where it was when you first called, it’s not there, I don’t know what direction it’s gone. So, if you can follow the animal safely, I do request that.”

While the cold temperatures aren’t going to stay forever, Flaigg has one more tip for when it finally starts to warm up.

“My biggest advice is still be concerned about the paws because then as the ice starts to melt, and the snow melts, then we have the salt and ice melt that is on the sidewalk and can be abrasive as well,” Flaigg explained.

Flaigg recommends putting socks or booties on your pet’s paws before taking them out for a walk.

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