DENVER — An Arctic cold front arrives in Colorado this weekend, bringing bitterly cold temperatures and snow to the state.
Periods of dangerous wind chill readings are expected through Tuesday morning. The wind and low temperatures will lead to wind chills of 20 below to 35 below zero, with the most severe conditions east of Interstate 25. The coldest readings, approaching 35 below zero, are expected late Monday night into Tuesday morning.
The cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 10 minutes. The National Weather Service recommends avoiding outside activities if possible during this period.
The frigid temperatures can be deadly for pets and precautions should be taken to protect animals inside and outside the home.
Cold weather animal safety
Denver Dumb Friends League offers several important safety tips for pets during winter weather.
- Make sure all your pets have a warm place to sleep indoors, off the floor, and away from drafts.
- Before driving, be sure to check your car’s engine, as well as under and on top of your wheels, for resting animals. It’s common for outdoor cats and wildlife to seek refuge and warmth from vehicles in cold weather.
- Never leave a pet alone in a car, especially in extreme temperatures.
- Many ice melt products can be hazardous for our animal friends. After spending time outdoors, wipe your pet’s feet, legs, and abdomen to prevent ingestion of salt and dangerous chemicals.
- Check your garage and driveway for antifreeze and other chemicals commonly used in the wintertime. Antifreeze is a deadly poison, but it has a sweet taste that often attracts animals.
- Make preparations to care for your pets during power outages or pipe bursts, especially if you share your home with fish, reptiles, or small mammals.
- Provide pets with access to plenty of fresh water.
- If your dog has a short coat or seems bothered by the cold weather, consider a sweater or dog coat.
- Don’t let your dogs off leash on snow or ice, and never let your pets walk across frozen ponds or lakes.
- Make sure your pet has a well-fitting collar with up-to-date identification, microchip and contact information.
- If you find a lost pet, approach the animal gently so as not to stress them and take them to a local animal shelter. If you are unable to approach or secure the animal safely, contact your county’s animal control agency.
- Keep snow from piling up high next to your fence. A packed snowdrift may provide a boost for dogs to escape the confines of your yard.
- Keep your pet at a healthy weight throughout the winter.
- Keep your pets’ coats well-groomed; matted fur doesn’t protect them from the freezing cold.
The Denver Dumb Friends League has more tips at DDFL.org.
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