As you know, this week could bring record temperatures as well as possible snow and, more importantly, ice accumulation….a worst case scenario.
The most vulnerable are the elderly and pets. If you have elderly neighbors, please check on them to make sure they are ok and have heat and provisions should we lose power.
The Greenville Police Department offers the following friendly reminders to help protect your companion animals during the cold spell:
- Bring your pets indoors. Both cats and dogs are sensitive to severe cold and at risk for frostbite and hypothermia. Their exposed skin and nose could suffer tissue damage. If your dog or cat starts shivering, bring them inside.
- During the winter months, outdoor cats sometimes sleep under the hoods of cars. Keep this in mind when you go out to start your car in the morning.
- Never let your dog off the leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs can easily become lost.
- Thoroughly wipe off your dogs legs and stomach when he comes in out of the sleet, snow or ice. He can ingest salt, antifreeze or other potentially dangerous chemicals while licking his paws, and his paw pads may also bleed from snow or encrusted ice.
- Never shave your dog down to the skin in winter; a longer coat will provide more warmth.
- Never leave your dog or cat alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold and causing the animal to freeze to death.
- Make sure your companion has a warm place to sleep, off the floor and away from all drafts.
Score One for the Groundhog
