As the below freezing temperatures continue this week, the cold can affect our pets.

Linn Price with Animal Protection and Education in Paton says things like hypothermia can seriously impact our furry friends if they are left outside too long.

“Try to warm them up gradually. You don’t want to stick them in a bathtub of hot warm water, that’s not good for the tissue. Lots of times you’ll see on the little dogs walking through the snow, they’ll get like frostnip in their paw pad. If you suspect hypothermia, you should definitely call your vet and get them straight into the vet because it can be life-threatening.”

She suggests to either walk outside with your pet if they need to go to the bathroom or watch them from inside of the house and bring them straight in when they are done. If your pet needs to stay outside, make sure you have a well insulated dog house with a strong base of straw as well as a flap on it to keep in the warmth.