The Rocky Mountain Collegian

Issue date: 12/10/07 Section: News

Media Credit: Aaron Montoya Keeping your pets warm during the cold winter months is very important to their health and well being. Make sure that your pet has warm clothes if you plan to bring it outside in the snow.

Chilly weather, a packed library and the promise of holiday relaxation mark the arrival of winter on campus as students and faculty prepare to enjoy their month-long break from the everyday pursuit of higher education.

Pet owners in particular must be primed for the holiday season as snowy playtime or lazy days at home offer hidden dangers for the companion animal that could turn deadly.

"As we get into these different seasons we have to educate people on different things that they might see," said Cary Rentola, community relations manager at the Larimer Humane Society.

Picturesque snowstorms, beautiful holiday decorations and cold weather necessities all pose potentially serious risks to the livelihood of companion animals, requiring increased owner vigilance and education during the winter months.

"There are a lot of dangers out there, and it's the pets that are going to pay," adds Rentola.



Fido, it's cold outside



Cold weather can be especially harsh on cats and shorthaired or small dogs that can easily get lost, freeze or suffer from frostbite.

"We see spikes in the number of strays that come in throughout the winter, especially after big snow storms," explained Rentola.

Pets are more likely to become lost during or after snowstorms as the snow masks their ability to find their way back home. Such scenarios emphasize the necessity for cat and dog micro-chipping.

Cats pose a special danger when residing outside as many seek warmth under the hoods of cars. Unsuspecting humans will start their cars and unintentionally injure or kill a hidden cat with the fan belt.

Last January, two stray cats were brought into the Larimer Humane Society for this very reason. One survived, and one did not. Pet owners, as well as non-owners, must be aware and bang loudly on the hood of any car before starting the engine during colder temperatures.

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