As freezing temperatures spread across the country, it’s crucial to know how to keep your pets safe and healthy. Experts suggest several steps to shield your furry companions from the cold.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals highlights the serious health risks pets face in frigid weather.

“Winter’s dry and chilly air, as well as rain, sleet, and snow, can lead to painful chapped paws and itchy skin. However, these are not the only issues pets may encounter. Walking in winter can be hazardous if they lick chemicals from ice-melting products off their paws,” according to the ASPCA’s website.

Here are some important points to remember.

How cold is too cold for outdoor walks with your dog?

A simple guideline is: If you find it too cold to be outside, it’s likely too cold for your pet as well.

While dogs have varying sensitivities to cold based on health, age, size, and coat thickness, the ASPCA advises against leaving any dog outdoors in below-freezing conditions.

Dogs with dense, double-layered fur can generally endure colder temperatures better, whereas those with thinner fur are at greater risk. Additionally, young puppies, older dogs, and ill dogs are particularly vulnerable to the cold, as they struggle to maintain their body temperature.

Stray cats can manage temperatures around 15-20 degrees, but they risk hypothermia if it gets any colder. Some cities provide insulated boxes for cats as shelters, easily made from Styrofoam coolers, that volunteers distribute.

What health issues can pets encounter in severe cold?

Like humans, dogs and cats can suffer from frostbite and hypothermia when exposed to extreme cold for too long, as noted by the American Veterinary Medical Association. That’s why it’s essential to limit walking time and never leave pets unattended outside for extended periods.

These conditions can affect a dog’s ears, paws, and tail tips and require prompt medical attention, according to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Richard P. Riney Canine Health Center.

What symptoms indicate it’s too cold for your pet?

According to experts from Cornell University and PetMD, look for these warning signs that your pet may be in distress due to the cold weather:

• Shivering
• Whining
• Signs of anxiety
• Holding up one or more paws
• Reluctance to walk

What to do if your dog refuses to go outside in the cold?

Even though pets shouldn’t be left outside unattended, dogs still need to go out briefly for bathroom breaks.

Depending on their size and breed, they might only need to relieve themselves for a short time. However, if it is excessively cold, think about training them to use indoor pee pads during harsh winter weather, as suggested by Hill’s Pet Nutrition.

How can you shield your pet from the cold?

Experts from the ASPCA and the AVMA suggest various strategies to safeguard your pets during the cold snap. Here are some recommendations to keep your pets safe when it’s extremely cold outside:

• Keep pets indoors. If they need to go outside, limit their exposure.
• Outfit dogs in a sweater or coat.
• Wash and dry your pet with a towel once they come back indoors.
• Store anti-freeze and de-icers safely out of pets’ reach.
• Feed your pets well, possibly with some extra food.
• Steer clear of ice while outside.

For those who care for neighborhood cats, experts advise providing food and fresh water for them. Ensure that the water doesn’t freeze, as staying hydrated is vital for maintaining body temperature.

Contributing: Amaris Encinas and Jorge L. Ortiz, YSL News; The Lansing State Journal

Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.