SOUTH BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – As frigid temperatures grip the region, pet owners are taking extra precautions to keep their furry companions safe during outdoor activities.
Sean McGrath brought his dog, Kalvin, to a South Burlington dog park on Friday, allowing the pup to get exercise before conditions become too harsh.
“He’s got to run around. He likes the time with his friends and other dog buddies,” McGrath said.
After an hour of play, McGrath said he can tell when Kalvin has had enough of the cold weather.
“He starts picking up his paws when his paws are cold. He’s pretty good because he stays running around, but tomorrow we probably won’t come here because it’s going to be too cold,” McGrath said.
Dr. Eric Weiner of Burlington Emergency and Veterinary Specialists said watching paws is important for pet owners.
“If their feet are really cold, then they might start limping. Once the snow and ice kind of melts off and they’re still doing it, maybe it’s something to get looked at,” Weiner said.
Weiner said pet owners should use their own comfort level as a guide for their animals.
“If we want to wear a coat outside, they probably should,” Weiner said.
He recommends putting a jacket and even booties on pets. The extra paw protection can help with traction on slippery ice, too.
“Booties can be good because it obviously protects them from the cold, but also if there’s a lot of sand or salt on the roads, you know, that can be kind of toxic for them,” Weiner said.
Weiner said this weekend is not the time to let dogs go outside for extended periods.
“Stay warm, stay safe and keep an eye on your pets,” McGrath said.
