COLUMBIA, S.C. — With the recent winter cold, we all dress to stay warm, but what about our four-legged friends?
Just like humans, dogs and cats can get frostbite if their skin is exposed to low temperatures for long periods of time.
Tracy Schlicksup is Columbia's director of emergency services and one of the owners of CVETS. She says even if temperatures aren't extremely cold, wind chill can increase the risk of frostbite. She says: “Dogs and cats can be more susceptible to frostbite simply because there are parts of their bodies that don't receive the same kind of blood circulation, especially the tips of their ears, the tips of their noses, and their paw pads. is.”
If it's extremely cold, limit time spent outdoors, provide shelter, and consider clothing for your pet such as jackets and boots. Schlicksup recommends, “Really look at the clock and only let him watch it out for 5 to 10 minutes at a time.”
Be careful if your skin becomes pale or discolored. The area may feel cold or hard to the touch. You may also see your pet licking or biting the affected area when it's in pain, Schlicksup warns. “Once you've identified the areas of concern, you'll actually take a warm bath, which will improve circulation. You don't want to use dry heat like a hair dryer.”
Moist heat is advantageous over dry heat because it thaws frozen tissue more completely.
