Weather forecasters are predicting a significant drop in temperature over the next few days. The SPCA for Monterey County advises pet owners that cold and freezing temperatures can be deadly for pets and livestock. Pets that normally live outdoors during mild weather conditions need extra protection from freezing temperatures. The SPCA recommends bringing all pets into the home or a warm, heated garage during the upcoming cold snap.

Prolonged exposure to extreme cold and freezing temperatures can lead to life threatening hypothermia (severe lowering of the normal body temperature), especially for smaller dogs, cats, dogs with short hair, and all animals who are acclimated to our typically warmer climate.

If unable to be inside, dogs habituated to the outdoors must be protected by a dry, draft-free doghouse that is large enough to allow the dog to sit and lie down comfortably, but small enough to hold in his body heat. The floor should be raised a few inches off the ground. Provide extra dry blankets and towels and turn the house away from the wind, covering the doorway with a flap of heavy waterproof fabric or plastic. Dogs and cats not habituated to the outdoors need to be brought inside to ensure their safety. Do not leave indoor/outdoor house cats outside overnight.

Ensure that outdoor water sources for pets and livestock are checked frequently as they can freeze over and prevent access to water.

Pets found suffering from the effects of severe cold weather should be taken immediately to a veterinarian. During transport, the animal should be wrapped in warm, dry towels and blankets.

Do not leave your pet alone in a car during cold weather. A car can act as a refrigerator in the winter, holding in the cold.

For additional information, please contact The SPCA of Monterey County at 373-2631 or

422-4721 or visit www.SPCAmc.org.