Don’t be fooled by fur — pets get cold in winter, too

IOWA CITY - During the coldest winter temperatures, Eastern Iowans may want to stay inside by the fireplace or under a blanket, but that doesn't mean their pets always can do the same.

Below-zero wind chills last week were a frigid reminder that while four-legged best friends still may need to spend time outdoors, dangerous temps can pose a threat to pets, both indoor and outdoor, just like for their human counterparts.

So experts recommend taking some pet precautions this time of year.

'They may have a coat of fur on. It doesn't mean they aren't going to be affected by the cold,” said Liz Ford, Iowa City Animal Center supervisor.

Allan Berger, with the Emergency Veterinary Service of Iowa City, said there is no one exact temperature or length of time that becomes dangerous for a pet to be outside in the cold. Rather, it often depends on the species and breed he said - noting that a Saint Bernard may handle singe-digit temperatures fine but a Chihuahua could be uncomfortable.

Ford added it often depends as well on how conditioned a pet is to the elements.

'There's so many variables that you can't say at X degree they need to come inside,” Ford said. 'Every animal is an individual. They need to be treated that way.”

Even if dogs seem to be enjoying playing outside during extreme temperatures, Ford said people sometimes need to make the decision to limit the time.

Pets can suffer from the same symptoms and ailments as humans, including frostbite and hypothermia. Additionally, Berger said that outdoor cats especially need to have a reliable source of unfrozen drinking water because dehydration in the winter quickly can lead to urinary issues.

'Shivering is indeed something to watch for, any sort of lameness, any sort of reluctance to move. Analogies with peoples' behavior when people are too cold are useful,” Berger said.

Ford said if anyone believes a pet has gotten too cold, call a vet.

A hidden danger to pets comes from road salt or ice, either of which can get wedged in paws. Berger said one of the first things to do if your pet seems uncomfortable outside is to check its paws.

Ford said that some commercial ice melt for sidewalks and streets may burn pets' feet. She said there often are pet-safe versions, which are used in Iowa City's dog parks and which homeowners can buy at local retailers.

Owners can try to put their dogs in booties before going for walks to prevent this. But if an owner suspects that may be an issue for the pet, Ford said, he or she can clean the pet's paws by gently wiping them with a cloth and warm water.

If owners believe temperatures are cold enough that their outdoor pets may be at risk, Ford said, it's better to be safe than sorry.

'It's never a bad idea to err on the side of caution so your pet can live a nice healthy life,” she said.

' Comments: (319) 339-3172; maddy.arnold@thegazette.com