I hope everyone is doing well from Hurricane Sandy. In addition, I hope all of your furry friends are safe as well. Throughout New York, many families are experiencing power outages. Temperatures are dropping and it’s important to keep everyone warm, including any pets. Unfortunately it’s a tough situation since many people don’t have heat in their household.

Animals, such as dogs and cats, can develop Hypothermia when the temperature drops. Some symptoms of mild Hypothermia in dogs and cats include:

-Shivering

 -Weakness

Some severe symptoms of Hypothermia in dogs and cats include:

-Difficulty breathing

 -Dilated Pupils

-Pale/blue gums

-Coma

If any of these symptoms are noticed, it’s extremely important to seek veterinary attention because if nothing is done about it, the animal will become very ill and/or die. These symptoms are more common in older dogs and cats.  Older animals are more sensitive to the cold just like an elderly person.  Special care is definitely recommended for a geriatric animal.

A normal dog and cat temperature ranges between 100.5 to 102.5. If the temperature becomes lower then that, in the 80’s and 90’s, then it’s important to slowly warm up your animal. Some tips of warming up your companion include:

-Wrap them in blankets/towels

-Warm up water bottles (if possible)

-Fill up a rubber glove with water and put it in the microwave until it’s luke warm (if possible)

-Use a heating bad (if possible)

When using a heat source, don’t apply it directly to the animals skin. This will cause severe burns and then a veterinarian will then need to be contacted.

Furthermore, other ways to keep your pets healthy during a situation like this is providing them with a well balanced diet.  Also with plenty of fresh water.  Lastly, of course loving care.

Since many belongings were lost during the hurricane, it might be hard to support yourself and your pet. Many groups are getting together to provide help for both people and animals. There has been many donations consisting of blankets, dog food, toys, etc. At this time, if anyone does not have enough to support their animal with due to this tragedy, please check out these groups.

Just remember that animals need to keep warm too. They are very similar to humans when it comes to health. If anyone has any questions or concerns regarding your pet, please contact your local veterinarian.  Again, I hope all of you and your families are safe.