NEWS RELEASE
SHERIFF’S ANIMAL SERVICES DIVISION OFFERS WINTERTIME PET SAFETY TIPS
Durham, N.C., Nov. 14, 2012—Winter weather has finally arrived in the Triangle, and as people prepare their homes and cars for colder temperatures, precautions must also be taken to protect pets from the winter elements.
“Many people believe that because their pets have a coat of fur they are able to better withstand cold weather,” Sheriff’s Capt. Will Oakley said. Oakley is in charge of the Sheriff’s Animal Services Division. “This is a common misconception, but the reality is that animals—just like humans—become accustomed to the warm weather, and as temperatures drop, pet owners must take additional steps to protect their animals from cold-related injury or death.”
Oakley offers the following tips to ensure pet safety during the winter:
- Don't leave dogs or cats outdoors when temperatures drop. Most dogs, and all cats, are safer indoors; and shorthaired, very young, or old dogs and all cats should never be left outside without supervision. Short-coated dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater during walks.
- No matter what the temperature, wind chill can threaten a pet's life. A dog or cat is happiest and healthiest when kept indoors. However, if your dog is an outdoor dog, he must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground and covered with cedar shavings or straw. The house should be turned to face away from the wind, and the doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.
- Pets that spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Routinely check your pet's water dish to make certain the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls rather than metal; when the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal.
- Warm engines in parked cars attract cats and small wildlife, which may crawl up under the hood. To avoid injuring any hidden animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them away before starting your engine.
- The salt and other chemicals used to melt snow and ice can irritate the pads of your pet's feet. Wipe the feet with a damp towel when your pet returns from being outside.
- Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that may attract animals and children. Wipe up spills and store antifreeze (and all household chemicals) out of reach. Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or your family.
- Always have a winter disaster plan in place for you, your family and your pets.
For more information about pet safety or other animal-related questions, please contact the Sheriff’s Animal Services Division at 919-560-0630 or go to http://bit.ly/PUdZ7F. The Sheriff’s Animal Services Division office is located at 3005 Glenn Rd and is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
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Durham County Sheriff Office, Judicial Building, 201 East Main Street, 1st Floor, P.O. Box 170 Durham, NC 27701, (919) 560-0897
Equal Employment/Affirmative Action Employer
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