The Société protectrice des animaux (SPA) de l’Estrie wants new and experienced pet owners to consider their animal’s safety as the Eastern Townships goes through a cold snap.
According to a SPA press release, animals, like humans, are prone to frostbite in freezing temperatures. Certain dogs can resist cold weather, like huskies and malamutes, due to their thick and abundant fur.
However, some small or short-haired dogs, like Chihuahuas, are more sensitive to the cold. Pet owners also need to consider the age of the animal. Older dogs and cats are less tolerant of low temperatures.
SPA spokesperson Marie-Pier Quirion told The Record that while they normally send out a reminder every winter, this year is particularly important. There are a lot of new pet owners in Quebec, she said, as people sought companionship during the pandemic.
“There was a craze throughout the last year for domestic animals, so there are a lot of new dog owners who might not be informed about this,” said Quirion. “It’s really to remind people, for those who don’t know, that their dogs could get frostbite and there are ways to avoid it.”
SPA Estrie sends reminder to keep an eye on pets in cold weather
By Michael Boriero - Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
