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5 reminders for protecting pets in cold weather

With temps forecast to drop into dangerously cold territory soon, there are several things to keep in mind to keep animals safe.

MINNETONKA, Minn. — After a warmer-than-normal winter so far, the first arctic blast of the season is in the forecast for Minnesota soon. That makes it an important time to keep cold weather safety in mind, not only for people but pets too.

Rachel Mairose, Executive Director of The Bond Between (formerly known as Secondhand Hounds) offered these five important reminders:

  1. Frostbite can happen quickly, so consider limiting outdoor time as much as possible.
  2. Protect your pet's paws during walks, from cold and ice, but also from salt scattered on roads and sidewalks.
  3. Short-haired dogs need extra protection from the cold, so consider a coat for long walks.
  4. Antifreeze may keep things running, but it's also deadly for pets.
  5. Animals seeking warmth may hide in unusual places: if you park outside, bang on the hood before driving since an animal might seek shelter by your vehicle's warm engine.

Mairose says winter is a great time to foster animals, and The Bond Between is always looking for volunteers. For more information about fostering, visit The Bond Between's website.

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