The extreme cold weather not only affects people but also animals and pets, who can’t verbalize how cold they are.
Dr. Maddie Orem with the Hopkinsville Animal Clinic and the Todd County Animal Clinic says cold-weather warning signs in animals include shivering, paw lifting, whining, and weakness.
click to download audioDr. Orem says their feet should be the first thing checked.
click to download audioShe says animals can become distressed when temperatures drop below 20 degrees.
As far as domesticated pets go, she says 15 minutes outside should be the maximum, especially with snow on the ground.
Larger animals such as horses and cattle will also show signs of lethargy, with Dr. Orem adding that, despite the cold weather, water should continue to be provided regularly.
click to download audioDr. Orem also encourages farmers to keep an eye out for birthing cattle and to keep newborns as dry as possible and out of the cold.
