Important tips to keep pets safe in extreme weather
Aside from making sure dogs are equipped for the below-freezing temperatures, with their booties and jackets, Jonas Silva warns their outfits are just the first step in making sure they are safe for the hazardous weather.
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Jonas Silva, the founder of the nonprofit Dogs of Mott Haven, spoke to News 12 about a few important reminders for dog owners ahead of heavy snow predicted over the weekend.
Aside from making sure dogs are equipped for the below-freezing temperatures, with their booties and jackets, Silva warns their outfits are just the first step in making sure they are safe for the hazardous weather.
"Keep your walking time at a bare minimum. We don't want any dogs to get frost bite on their paws or hypothermia," shared Silva.
He also said it's good to create a barrier between their paws before they go outside.
"You can use Vaseline. It does create a barrier between the snow, the ice, the salt. So, it keeps them safe, moisturized. At small amounts it's not toxic, but if you use large amounts and they like to lick their paws afterwards, it can give them more upset stomach or diarrhea. So instead, I definitely recommend getting a balm for their paws and for their nose," Silva explained.
And when it comes to clearing the path around your home, choosing a pet-friendly salt is something to keep in mind, shared William Pedone, of Van Nest Hardware store.
"Sure, paws safe step is a very good ice melter. Intermediate grade. Won't hurt your animals and won't ruin your shrubs, bushes or sidewalks," said Pedone.
With all salt, not being safe for animals, Silva noted it's good to wash and dry your dog's paws when returning home.
"Even with booties, they'll get, you know, some salt in there or, you know, it's just dirty. So, whenever you come home, you definitely want to take the booties off. Get just any soapy water. You just want to make sure you get in between them toes," warned Silva.
Another note to keep in mind is to never let your dog off-leash on snow or ice - especially during a snowstorm.
The ASPCA says dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost or disoriented.
To lean more information on keeping your pets safe during cold weather, click here.
