The temperatures are expected to dip to 17 degrees Friday night, and our animals need special care during this early chill to stay safe & comfortable.
Please help get the word out and send these tips along to others with pets!
* If you see an animal at risk, contact your local police, or state police. Remember that the animals are counting on you!
* If you can bring your outside pet inside while the temperatures are frigid, keep them in a cooler area such as the basement or garage to avoid extreme temperature changes.
* If your pet is outside, make sure he has a dry, draft-free shelter. They should be able to sit and lie down comfortably. Don’t make it too large, however: it should be small enough hold in his/her 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 a flap of heavy waterproof fabric or heavy plastic.
* Increase the amount of food you provide in the winter: the extra calories will help keep them warm.
*Check often to make sure they have unfrozen water. Don’t use metal bowls: when it is cold your pet’s tongue may freeze to the metal. Plastic bowls are better!
* Keep your indoor pets safe by not leaving them outside for extended periods of time when the temperature drops below freezing. Sweaters not only look cute, but also help keep shorthaired dogs comfortable during outdoor jaunts. Wipe feet with a damp towel every time after coming in from outdoors to remove harmful salt.
* Before you start your car, bang on the hood to scare away cats or small wildlife that may have crawled up under the hood to keep warm. Also check your tires in case a feline is napping on top!
* Wipe up any spills of antifreeze, which is a deadly poison. The sweet taste attracts animals and children. Better yet, use antifreeze-coolant made with propylene glycol; if swallowed in small amounts, it will not hurt pets, wildlife, or people.
Orphans of the Storm is an animal shelter committed to serving Armstrong County by matching loving animals with loving people since 1969. Visit the shelter the next time you would like to add a family member to your household. Or, enrich your life by volunteering with the animals. For more information, call (724) 548-4520 or visit the shelter’s website at www.orphansofthestorm-pa.org