The Perils of Extreme Cold for Pets and Wildlife in Wichita
As the temperatures plunge this weekend, the spotlight shifts to how this extreme cold impacts not only humans but also our beloved pets and wildlife. In Wichita, animal welfare organizations are bracing to step up their efforts to protect furry friends from the biting chill.
Pets are Vulnerable to Cold
Wichita Animal Action League (WAAL) has emphasized that the freezing temperatures can be dangerously low for most domestic animals—especially common house pets like cats and dogs. Stephanie McCurdy from WAAL said, “It looks like we are going to be working some overtime this weekend and trying to keep our furry friends warm.”
Reporting Stray Animals
One crucial aspect of animal welfare during the cold snap is community involvement. WAAL encourages residents to be vigilant. If you see an animal in distress or left outside in these frigid conditions, they urge you to "say something." You can either approach the animal if it’s safe to do so or report its location to WAAL, which can dispatch someone to assist.
Shortening Outdoor Time
While certain dog breeds might relish snowy conditions, experts recommend that pet owners play it safe. “This is probably not going to be one of your strolling walk weekends,” McCurdy cautioned. Instead, pet owners should limit their animals’ time outside to essential bathroom breaks and encourage them to return indoors promptly.
Checking for Hazards
Beyond managing outdoor time, the Kansas Humane Society’s Jordan Bani-Younes highlights additional precautions that pet owners should take. “Make sure that you’re checking their paws; if they have ice stuck between their toes, that you’re brushing that off,” Bani-Younes said. It’s also imperative to monitor pets’ exposure to hazards like antifreeze, which is incredibly toxic to animals.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Animals
If you have outdoor cats, it’s vital to research the best way to keep them safe from the elements. Blankets, for instance, may freeze and become ineffective. Instead, consider creating insulated shelters that can help protect stray and outdoor cats from the bitter cold.
Building Warming Shelters
Creating suitable environments for outdoor animals can also be a community effort. For those looking to make a difference, building a warming shelter is an impactful way to provide refuge for wildlife.
- Design: Ensure the shelter has two openings to allow animals to escape if they feel threatened.
- Cover and Insulate: Use tarps to cover the hut, elevate it off the ground if possible, and line the interior with insulation materials like straw.
- Food and Water: It’s also essential to place food in a quiet area and offer a water source, especially in freezing temperatures when water can freeze quickly.
Jane Neave, a board member with Friends of Felines, advocates for the well-being of outdoor cats during frigid weather. She highlights, “If you have an indoor/outdoor cat, this is the time to make them indoor exclusively, at least until the weather’s passed.”
Understanding the Risks
The extreme weather poses severe risks. Hypothermia can develop quickly if animals are left exposed outside for too long, necessitating urgent veterinary care. McCurdy emphasizes the seriousness of the situation, noting that the cold can lead to life-threatening conditions.
Emergency Boarding Support
As part of their commitment to animal welfare during this extremely cold weather, the Wichita Animal Shelter is offering free 72-hour boarding for pets belonging to individuals experiencing homelessness. This initiative allows pet owners to drop off pets at the shelter or arrange for pick-up by an animal services officer, ensuring that all pets have a safe place to stay during the cold wave.
By staying informed and vigilant, the citizens of Wichita can play a crucial role in safeguarding their pets and the local wildlife during these biting temperatures. Whether it’s limiting outdoor time, reporting at-risk animals, or creating warm shelters, every action counts in protecting our furry companions.
