It's cold outside – too cold for your pets

As the mercury plummets to a low of minus 31 overnight it is important to make sure all of your family stays warm and out of harm’s way including your pets.

“There's no 'magical' temperature for pets but common sense should prevail,” explains General Manager of the North Bay & District Humane Society Daryl Vaillancourt when asked at what point it is too cold for a pet to be outdoors.

The Ontario SPCA notes that cats, short-coated dogs and puppies are vulnerable to cold temperatures and recommends that when the temperature drops below freezing pets should be inside.

They also note to never leave your cat or dog alone in a car during cold weather as cars act like a fridge trapping in the cold, which could cause your pet to freeze to death.

Vaillancourt says that when going out for quick walks and bathroom runs there are steps to take in order to keep your dog(s) comfortable.

“A short haired dog like a Chihuahua will need proper protection such as a coat, booties -- road salt can harm dog's paws,” he notes to BayToday.

“On the other hand a husky can sleep comfortably in a snow bank in extreme weather conditions but even these hardy animals must be offered proper shelter.”

“If you're cold ... you're pet is probably cold too!”

Also he says if your pet cannot come inside your home you must provide proper shelter failure to provide adequate shelter could lead to charges and prosecution a fine and jail time.

Proper shelter as defined by the OSPCA:

- Structurally sound enclosure for its use at all times

- must be weatherproof and insulated

- size and design must be adequate & appropriate for the dog

- restraint device a minimum of 3 meters

- access to water & food