By COLE REIF
Great Bend Post
Temperatures will be dropping into the negatives this week in Barton County
with a good chance for blistery conditions leading up to Thursday.
Hoisington Animal Control Officer Dolores Kipper said animals can withstand the
cold somewhat better than humans, but only so much. Dogs, for example, can
easily get frozen paws if let outside too long.
"If it snowing or sleeting, dogs can get that snow stuck between the webbing of their paws which can cause frostbite," said Kipper. "Bring them inside."
If owners are not able to bring the dogs inside, there is a scale available
that outlines how long a dog should be outside based on the animal’s size and
breed.
"I hear the argument all the time, 'my dog loves it outside' and I am sure they do, but there should be a limit," said Kipper.
By law, pet owners are required to give animals outside access to food, water
and shelter. Kipper reminds citizens to make sure the water is not frozen.