Just like humans, pets left outside can suffer frost bite and hypothermia. The weather is just too frigid, even if your dog has an outside shelter like a dog house.
German animal lover Sabina Herriger has donated clothes for the animals at Bitlis Municipality’s dog shelter, as the eastern Turkish town regularly sees temperatures plunge to minus 20 degrees at night. All dogs at the shelter are now snugly dressed up in water-proof polar clothes sent by Herriger.
Even here in western Turkey you should also be aware that the cold weather can have an impact on your pet. When temperatures drop, pets should not be left outside for any length of time. Larger breeds and thick-coated dogs may remain outside, with adequate shelter, to a temperature of zero. Precipitation and wind chill should also be taken into account. Adequate shelter means, a well-built, insulated, slant-roofed dog house. The interior should be just large enough for the dog to stand and to lie down comfortably. It should be slightly elevated from the ground for air circulation. The door should face away from prevailing winds and have a protective flap to eliminate drafts. Clean, dry straw should be provided for bedding rather than towels, rugs or blankets, which absorb moisture and freeze in fridge temperatures.
It is the street animals that suffer most. Increase the amount of food by 10-20 percent if you are feeding street animals. The extra calories are needed to help an animal stay warm. Finally remember to take into consideration that roaming cats often seek the warmth of car engines, so to be sure to knock on the car hood or honk the horn before starting your car to startle them and give them a chance to escape.
Source: Daily Hurriyet
