Pet parents are being reminded to limit their pets’ outdoor time as temperatures drop. Grande Prairie Enforcement Services issued the warning on Wednesday morning. Environment Canada says it expects to see wind chills in the minus 20s over the next few days.
Tips for keeping pets safe in the winter include limiting outdoor time especially for puppies, senior dogs, small and short-haired dog breeds; thoroughly dry feet, legs and stomach when your dog comes in from the snow; monitor paw pads, don’t leave pets unattended in a vehicle and provide outdoor dogs with an insulated shelter with straw bedding.
Warning signs of a pet in distress include excessive shivering, lifting paws, licking/biting paws, or refusing to play.
It is an offence under the Animal Protection Act to cause or allow an animal to be in distress. To report an animal in distress, contact Enforcement Services at 780-357-8732.