The cold weather is here! Keep in mind that even though our pets have "fur coats" cold temperatures can cause hypothermia and can be just as detrimental as hot temperatures. Hypothermia is a condition in which the body temperature becomes too low for normal functioning. Symptoms of hypothermia can vary from mild to severe. Animals with hypothermia often have violent shivering, slow and shallow respiration, slower heart rate, muscle stiffness and lack of mental alertness. Severe hypothermia symptoms include fixed and dilated pupils, inaudible heartbeat, difficulty breathing, and coma. Animals that are at a higher risk include the very young, geriatric, short-haired, small, wet, and have no shelter during periods of cold temperatures.
So be mindful of how long your pet is outside or taking a walk. Stay warm!
