Cochrane is currently under an extreme cold warning and that can lead to dangers not only for humans but pets as well.

“You got to be careful about how long you're out for and the general rule is if it's too cold for us to be out for a long time, they probably don't want to be out there either,” explains Dr. Michaela Bartolini with Arrowhead Veterinary Centre.

“The biggest thing is things like frostbite and stuff on their feet. Protect their feet with booties or you can get protective balms that you can get for their pads. You have to do shorter, frequent walks and that's the way that it is.”

“We also see a lot of like slipping on ice injuries too, especially with older pets that their mobility is a lot more limited it's harder for them to get around.”

She says that even if the temperature rises, owners need to keep their eyes peeled for chemicals homeowners use to remove snow, such as blue ice melter. 

“They can get really red and irritated, avoiding those sources is a good idea. If you do happen like if they get the salt and stuff on their toes, you'll know pretty quickly and it’s best to get them into the snow to wipe them off."

Not being able to spend much time outside and less exercise can also lead to issues for the family dog and Dr.Bartolini says keeping them active indoors will go a long way. She suggests playing with your pets and also challenging them mentally will help release pent-up energy.

What about the animals that live outside year-round? 

"Making sure that they have access to like a nice, warm, dry shelter. Make sure they've got lots of bedding and ideally up off the ground."

"There are lots of outdoor dogs and animals and as long as they've got shelter and fresh, unfrozen water, they do fine."