Cold temps pose danger for outdoor pets

JACKSON, Tenn. — Overnight wind chills could make outside temperatures feel like some of the coldest temps of the season — making for tough conditions for outdoor pets.

The dip in temperatures has sales on the rise for some items at R&J Feed Supply.

“Usually two or three days before it’s going to get cold, we see an increase in the sales for the dogs as well as the other animals like the goats and horses and sheep too,” store manager Ginger Kemp said.

From heat lamps to heat pads, items are available to give your outdoor pets an extra layer of safety during the cold nights.

“Hay, shavings, anything that would keep them warm outside,” Kemp said, adding that not only do bails of hay provide warmth but also nutrients.

“That food a lot of times can also provide them internal warmth, too,” Kemp said.

The American Veterinary Medical Association says extra food is only one way to keep weather-related dangers from hurting or even killing outdoor animals. They recommend keeping your animal dry, checking paws and providing adequate shelter.

It’s something one pet owner says he makes sure to give his outdoor pets.

“Either in a dog house that’s fit for them, under a trailer if you live in a trailer, or inside, in a barn — just somewhere they can get out of the wind and get themselves nice and cozy,” pet owner Roger Fowler said.

Officials say it’s crucial during cold snaps to make sure your outdoor animals have access to fresh water that’s not frozen to avoid dehydration.