Temperatures are below zero. Should your animals stay outside or inside?

Stock image IDAHO FALLS — With temperatures dropping below the negative teens in most of eastern Idaho this week, knowing what to do with your furry friends is important. Veterinary Technician Kristen Marsh with Sunnyside Veterinary Clinic in Idaho Falls says that cats’ and dogs’ cold tolerance depends on their breed and age. “For example, huskies, they can last out there; I mean, this is their type of weather,” Marsh said. “Whereas if it was a small shih tzu or chihuahua that has really short fur, it could be a problem and cause some frostbite issues.” Marsh says outdoor cats often find places that are warm enough to hide in, but kittens are more at risk of frostbite. Pet owners should be familiar with their pets’ breed and care for them accordingly. The American Veterinary Medical Association also says pets should never be left outside in sub-freezing temperatures for long periods. When it comes to livestock, their cold tolerance greatly depends on their preparation throughout the year. “Having as much animals as we have of different kinds, it’s pretty much impossible to have a shelter for every animal,” said Greg Bagley, owner of Bagley’s Teton Mountain Ranch in Driggs. Temperatures in Driggs are dropping to -33 degrees without windchill and -46 degrees with windchill this week. But Bagley says livestock like elk, horses and cows are designed to live in low temperatures. The key to keeping livestock safe in cold temperatures is ensuring they have enough flesh and fur to stay warm. Bagley recommends ensuring the animals are fed well before and during winter. “Have plenty of feed out there that the animals can eat,” Bagley said. “We give them plenty of feed that is more than they can actually eat, and animals will continue to keep chewing on and eating stuff, and that actually is what helps them get through these cold mornings.” It’s essential to be consistent with their care throughout the year. People often say outdoor animals need a shelter and a blanket, but Bagley says that’s not necessarily the case. “It is true in a way, because if that animal is used to having a blanket or a shelter, then you do have to have that,” Bagley said. “But when these animals are prepared through the summer and going into the fall without a shelter and without a blanket, their bodies are actually designed to put on a coat and necessary things for that animal to survive.” Animal safety in cold temperatures comes down to knowing the breed and ensuring they are prepared for the weather. For more information about best practices for pet care in the winter, visit the AMVA website. The post Temperatures are below zero. Should your animals stay outside or inside? appeared first on East Idaho News.
Source: eastidahonews.com