THUNDER BAY — When the weather gets as cold as it is in Thunder Bay this week, it's not just humans whose safety can be jeopardized.
The wind chill in the city on Monday morning dropped to -43 C, and similar conditions are expected Tuesday.
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society warns that dogs and cats can develop hypothermia and potentially die if they're left outside during frigid conditions for an extended period.
Bonnie Bishop, regional manager for community outreach services, said ""We encourage people to limit the amount of time pets spend outdoors, and to watch for early signs that they're cold, such as shivering or holding up their paws."
She said cats, puppies, and short-coated dogs are particularly vulnerable.
"We encourage people not to leave pets outside unless they are supervised...Please keep an eye on them at all times."
Bishop said there are specific signs to watch for, including shaking, shivering, a hunching posture with a tucked tail, whining, barking or a change in behaviour.
"Or they want to go back in, they become anxious, they're reluctant to walk any longer, or seek a place for shelter."
She said if owners believe hypothermia may have set in, they should try to warm their pet up as soon as possible, and reach out to a veterinarian.
"Some of the signs of hypothermia can be confusion, pale gums, muscle stiffness, weakness and prolonged shivering."
The Ontario SPCA and Humane Society no longer enforces provincial animal welfare legislation, but anyone observing an animal in distress can phone the Ontario animal protection call centre 24/7 at 1-833-9-ANIMAL or 1-833-926-4625.
