Cochrane, along with many areas across Alberta have been under an extreme cold warning issued by Environment Canada since late last week; and those deep freeze temperatures are forecasted to stick around until Sunday.

As extreme weather-related ailments become a factor for people venturing out in the cold, we are reminded to also take the proper precautions to ensure the safety of our pets 
and stray animals.

Dr. Becky Whittle is a local veterinarian with the Cochrane Animal Clinic and she says that stray cats will often seek shelter under the hoods of cars.

She says "Stray cats that are outside are looking for a warm place to hide and car hoods are a common hiding spot for them. If you park outside for prolonged periods it's a good idea to do a quick bang on the hood of your car to make sure there isn't an animal under there before you start it."

Dr. Whittle says that it's important to dress our animals for the elements just as we do for ourselves. She says that a jacket or sweater is especially important for animals with a shorter coat of fur and that boots will help to protect their paws. She says "They certainly feel the cold as well and one of the big ways they are exposed is through their paws. Keeping their paws covered with dog booties in the extreme cold will keep them protected, as well as keeping them lubricated by applying vaseline can be helpful. Animals can often get cracked and bleeding paws from stepping on cold ice and the chemicals found in de-icing products can also be quite harmful to them. Certainly, different breeds will have a different tolerance. A big Husky dog will be more tolerant of the cold than a little Chihuahua."

Dr. Whittle says that with temperatures ranging from minus 20 to minus 40 this week, it's important to limit the amount of time animals spend outside.

She also says that vehicles can quickly turn into a refrigerator when turned off, and recommends leaving your pets at home during extreme temperatures.