Keep Pets Safe in the Extreme Cold

Don't take your dog out into the elements without being educated! Read these 6 tips for the extreme cold and how to keep your friends safe as we move towards the end of winter. Read full article here or begin below.

"6 Pet Safety Tips for the Extreme Cold"

By: Joanna Prisco

As much of the country continue to endure snow, sleet and ice, it's important to remember that four-legged friends require special care when the temperature drops.

Dr. George Melillo, Northeast regional medical director for Banfield Pet Hospital, which operates 800 locations throughout the U.S., shared with ABC News his tips for taking care of pets in extreme cold.

Keep a Cap on Playtime Even if Fido loves running through the fluffy piles of snow, extended exposure to the cold can be damaging to a pet's health. "It is recommended not to leave pets outside when the temperature drops below freezing," said Melillo. "Pets that are left outside for too long can suffer from hypothermia and frostbite."

Not only that, but extremities, such as ear tips, paws and the end of the tail are particularly susceptible to cold injuries, he said. For this reason, limit the time your pet spends in the cold. To determine how long is too long, keep a close eye on your dog to make sure they look comfortable. "Some dogs can stay outside longer than others," said Melillo. "For example, breeds such as Malamutes fare much better in cold weather than Chihuahuas."

Don't Go Shaving "Dogs with longer coats will be warmer in winter, so it is advised not to shave a dog's coat down to the skin," Melillo told ABC News. So no matter now cute Buffy looks when freshly shorn, it's best to wait until spring.

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