In frigid temperatures, household pets should only go outside if absolutely necessary and, then, for the shortest amount of time possible.
Jaime Kurucz, veterinarian with Galloway Village Veterinary, said safeguarding dogs and cats during cold days and nights starts with limiting their time outside. They need to be kept inside or in a heated garage so they are not exposed to this extreme cold, she said.
Kurucz urged families to bring pets that primarily live outside into the house or garage, if at all possible. If not, they should have easy access to a cozy, draft-free shelter that has been raised off the ground.