GOLDEN VALLEY, Minn. — "I just try to bundle up," said Maron Zobott, who was out walking her dog, Archie. "I have multiple layers on; I have two legs layers."
With dangerous wind chills wreaking havoc on parts of the U.S., doctors are issuing a warning for those venturing outside.
"We see a variety of illnesses related to the cold and weather conditions," said Dr. Robert Welborn, an emergency physician with Allina Health's United Hospital Emergency Department.
Like hypothermia, caused by prolonged exposure to very cold temperatures.
"We see a lot of that, too, quite frankly in our unsheltered population, but it can happen to anyone who is outside for a prolonged period of time," he said.
Along with frostbite, which is a type of injury caused by freezing.
"If you notice you have symptoms of frostbite, which can be any skin discoloration, or painful or prickly sensation in an arm, finger or toe, the steps are quite simple. You should make a plan to get back inside, and make sure to remove wet or damp clothing," he said.
And when it comes to keeping her dog, Archie, safe, Zobott says, "Archie loves the cold. I don't do much for him; I keep his hair long. He has foot balm if his feet get dry."
According to the Animal Emergency and Referral Center of Minnesota, pet owners should also consider a few tips like investing in winter gear for pets, never leaving pets in cars or outside, and protecting dogs' feet by wearing booties and wiping their paws before returning inside.
So, whether it's pets or people, doctors say it's important to take precautions for your safety.
"Understand your own personal limits and limit time outside if you're someone not used to it," said Welborn.
There are people at higher risk for frostbite, like the elderly and small children.
Doctors say if you do believe you have frostbite or hypothermia symptoms, it's important to get medical help right away.
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