Keeping pets safe while playing in freezing conditions

WHITEVILLE, NC (WWAY) — Pet safety is a big concern over the next couple of days with freezing weather in the forecast.

We swung by the Columbus County Animal Shelter where dogs and cats are ready for the colder weather and will stay indoors during the freezing temps.

Animal control manager Joey Prince spoke with us about the dangers of letting the family pets out when freezing temps are around. He says that a lot of pets love to have fun in the snow but their time outside should be monitored like children.

“You especially don’t want them out there when it is icing and sleeting because it can actually stick to their fur,” Prince said, “so let them out there with the kids to have fun but just like the children, after a reasonable amount of time, bring them back in.”

Prince also said to be careful of antifreeze spills in your driveway or on the road. Animals can be attracted to the smell of it and it can be toxic to them.