The winter storm that has brought sub-freezing temperatures to much of the state can pose a danger to pets, even those that are accustomed to living outside. The SPCA of Texas is urging pet owners to bring their animals indoors for the next few days for their safety.
"Freezing temperatures can be dangerous and even deadly for companion animals, so if you can it's best to keep your pets indoors as much as possible," said Madeline Yeaman, Communications Specialist with the SPCA of Texas. "A good rule of thumb is...if you're cold outside...your pet probably is, too. Even though they have that fur coat, it's still cold for them outside - especially with temperatures being as low as they are. A lot of animals are not acclimated to this...so please, please, please bring your pets indoors."
Texas law requires pet owners to provide adequate shelter for their animals. "It requires that the shelter actually be able to withstand the elements," Yeaman said. "If you see suspected animal cruelty...please call 214-461-1851 to report that." The SPCA also accepts those reports on its website.
The winter storm also poses some additional hazards for pets. Yeaman says when taking your dog out for a walk during the next few days, check to see if they come into contact with salt or other materials used to treat roads for ice.
"Salt or antifreeze can actually hurt your pets if they ingest it while licking their paws. So when you come back inside from those walks go ahead and wipe off your pet's paws to make sure you get any of that off," she said.
Pets and wild animals can also take shelter underneath cars or even under a vehicle's hood.
"Before you start your car when it's cold like this, we always recommend that you check under your hood...check the engine and make sure there are no animals in there," said Yeaman. "We see this from wildlife like squirrels to cats and kittens."
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