Tips for keeping your pets safe and warm amid arctic blast

DALLAS — As an arctic blast arrives in North Texas, pets must be kept safe and warm, too. The Humane Society of North Texas has some tips for pet owners to ensure their pets have adequate shelter. Among the first pieces of advice Humane Society of North Texas Clinic Medical Director Cynthia Jones has for pet owners is to keep pets indoors if possible.

"In these extreme conditions, protecting your pets as much as possible is vital. Pets should be brought indoors if at all possible. Dog houses (with elevated floors) to help block the wind are good, but additional insulation or a heat source should be provided. Make sure any outdoor housing provided is watertight….cold is bad, and cold is potentially deadly.

Keep an eye on your pet’s water when a lengthy freeze is expected. Pets drink less during the winter months, but they still need a viable water source at all times." Tips for Keeping Pets Safe: Provide Adequate Shelter: Ensure your pet has a warm and insulated shelter. This could be a well insulated dog house or a cozy shelter with blankets for smaller pets.

Make sure it protects them from wind, rain, and cold temperatures. Additional Tips for Community Cats and Resources: Caring for outdoor community cats, also known as feral or stray cats, requires a different approach than indoor pets. Here are some tips for providing support and ensuring their well being: For more tips on how to build a shelter, click here ..