MURPHYSBORO (WSIL) -- With more bitter cold temperatures and winter weather expected this week it's important to not forget about your pets.
"It is a law in Illinois that if it's 32 or below a dog cannot be left outside for more than 30 minutes," states Diane Daugherty, President of the Board at Saint Francis CARE.
Daugherty says cold temperatures are not only dangerous to people but to our pets as well.
"This dog has a single coat of fur which makes him much more susceptible to the cold. So of course to be out here for 30 minutes Razor needs a jacket," explains Daugherty.
When embracing the cold animals require more calories to stay warm and outdoor water can freeze quickly.
"The water bowl is frozen stiff. In less than two hours water can freeze. Especially when we're talking about zero degree temperatures," adds Daugherty.
Snow, ice and freezing rain make battling the cold even more threatening.
"Have straw, not a blanket because the straw will keep them warm and it won't retain the moisture. If you have a blanket outside and it gets wet, this sounds terrible, but they can actually freeze to the blanket," says Daugherty.
Salts and chemicals used to treat icy conditions can also burn their paws. Daugherty says to be sure to clean and dry their feet when returning indoors. "Say if his feet and his legs were packed with snow then you just take this and rub up and down and the snow will fall off."
If you see a pet left out in the cold Daugherty asks that you call an official for help. "A lot of times people will call here and say there's a dog chained up and it's so cold. We're so worried about him. Call the police. The police have authority to come and get the dog and save the dogs life."
Daugherty says to also be sure to keep your pets away from antifreeze which can be deadly. For more pet safety information click .
Razor is also up for adoption. Fore more information on Razor click .
