COLUMBIA, S.C. — With the recent winter chill, we bundle up to stay warm, but what about our four-legged friends?
Like humans, dogs and cats can get frostbite when their skin is exposed to cold temperatures for extended periods.
Tracy Schlicksup is the Director of Emergency Services and one of the owners of CVETS in Columbia. She says wind chill can intensify the risk of frostbite, even if temperatures aren't extremely low. “Dogs and cats can be susceptible to frostbite just because they have areas of their body that don’t get the same type of circulation. So, particularly, the tips of their ears, the tips of their nose, their paw pads.”
In extreme cold, limit outdoor time, provide shelter, and even consider pet clothing like jackets and booties. Schlicksup recommends "you actually watch the clock and only let them out for five or 10 minutes at a time.”
Be on the lookout for pale or discolored skin. The area may feel cold or hard to the touch. You might also see your pets licking or chewing on the affected areas when they are in pain, Schlicksup warns. “If you identify an area of concern, you're going to use actually a warm water bath because that allows for improved circulation. You don't want to use dry heat like a hairdryer.”
Wet heat is favorable than dry heat, as it more thoroughly thaws frozen tissue.