How Cold Is Too Cold For Your Pet? - Dallas News | myFOXdfw.com

How Cold Is Too Cold For Your Pet?

Wednesday's extremely cold weather has you bundling up before you head outdoors, but what about your pet?

Experts say it's important that you also consider the warmth and comfort of your pet before heading outdoors.

Generally, the rule of thumb is if it's too cold for people, it's too cold for cats and dogs.

Melissa Levy, Executive Director of PAWS, offered several tips to help keep you pet safe out in the cold weather.

Too cold for people, too cold for pets:

If it's too cold for people to be outside, then it's too cold for cats and dogs to be outside.

Dogs will show signs of being cold:

Only take dogs out for a walk as long as they need the exercise. Dogs will show signs of being cold and will shiver just like people do.

Short haired dog, dress them in a sweater:

If you have a dog with short hair, put a sweater on him or her when they go outside.

Salt on the roads, sidewalks can harm your pet:

After a walk, wipe the pads of your dog's paws to keep the salt from irritating them and to minimize the risk of the dog eating the salt and becoming ill.

Bang on the hood of your car before starting it:

Outdoor cats tend to hide under the hoods of cars to keep warm. Before starting your car, bang on the hood to scare away any animals.