How to keep pets safe during freezing temps: tips from PACC

TUCSON, Ariz. — Cold temperatures are about to hit Tucson and the Pima Animal Care Center wants to remind you to keep your pet as warm and safe as possible.

“Pets across Southern Arizona just aren’t used to temperatures like this, so when they are left out in the elements, it can be deadly,” said Director of Animal Services Kristen Hassen.

PACC says to think of it like this, if you're too cold to be outside, your dog feels the same way.

"The easiest way to protect your pets during this cold snap is to keep them at home, indoors," PACC said.

PACC provided the following tips that all owners should use as a guide:

• Bring pets indoors for the night.
• For outdoor-only pets, make sure there is adequate shelter which not only provides overhead cover, but also protects from drafts and keep pets off the ground. Blankets and straw can both provide relief from the cold ground.
• Put sweaters or coats on pets when they’re outside in cold weather. Pets in Tucson are not used to freezing cold temperatures so pet clothing can help keep them warm while out on a walk.
• License and microchip pets. If your pet becomes lost in dangerously cold weather, you’ll want to get it back as quickly as possible. Check your tags and microchip to make sure the information is up-to-date or visit PACC to get or renew your dog license. If your pet needs a microchip, the shelter is holding a free microchip clinic now until Dec. 22 in the overflow parking lot.

If you see a pet that does not have appropriate shelter, you're asked to call 520-724-5900, extension 4.