Last week in Days of Our Nine Lives, the ARF cats learned about the adoption of Cinnamon and Toto, as well as learning about the new litter of puppies.
Stevie: Brrr! It’s getting kind of cold up here on the mountain.
Whiskers: True, but it’s all good with me. I really like curling up in a warm cat tree.
Stevie: But you know that also means humans must be reminded that we four-leggeds, dogs and cats need extra attention.
Don: Yea, not just in the heat of summer.
Stevie: Who wants to go first?
Phil: I do! It is so important for pet guardians to remember cats and dogs should be kept inside during cold weather. It’s a common belief that dogs and cats are more resistant than people to cold weather because of their fur, but it’s untrue.
Pepper: Right! Like people, cats and dogs are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia and should be kept inside.
Whiskers: Phil, what about cats and dogs that have lots of fur?
Phil: Good question. Longer-haired and thick-coated dog breeds, such as huskies and other dogs bred for colder climates, are more tolerant of cold weather; but no pet should be left outside for long periods in below-freezing weather.
Pepper: I know a dog who was so excited to play in the snow, but he was in pain afterwards.
Don: I’m not surprised. Dog parents should check a dog’s paws frequently for signs of cold-weather injury or damage, such as cracked paw pads or bleeding, or it could be that there is an accumulation of snow or ice between the toes.
Pepper: And cat parents need to make certain that the felines are warm, but safe. Access to some types of heaters can end in tragedy.
Be sure to keep up with the animal antics of “Days of our Nine Lives” each week. And please stop in to say hello to the entire adoptable cast at the ARF House, 26890 Highway 243. ARF is open Saturdays 10 a.m.-3 p.m., Sundays 10 a.m.-2 p.m., and during the week by appointment. Please call 951-659-1122.
Creature Corner is sponsored by Sandi Mathers.