Your veterinarian can check to make sure they don t have any medical problems that will make them more vulnerable to the cold. Keep your pets inside as much as you can when the mercury drops. If you have to take them out, stay outside with them. When you re cold enough to go inside, they probably are too. If you absolutely must leave them outside for a significant length of time, make sure they have a warm, solid shelter against the wind, thick bedding, and plenty of non-frozen water.
Some animals can remain outside safely longer in the winter than others.
Cats and small dogs that have to wade shoulder-deep in the snow will feel the cold sooner than larger animals. Your pet s health will also affect how long she can stay out. Conditions like diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, and hormonal imbalances can compromise a pet s ability to regulate her own body heat. Animals that are not generally in good health shouldn t be exposed to winter weather for a long period of time. Very young and very old animals are vulnerable to the cold as well.