Since winter seems to have finally arrived, it's a good time to reconsider what the cold means to our animal companions. In addition to (what should be) obvious advice - i.e. don't lock your dog in the garage with an idling automobile - Steve Dale tells us that small dogs, as well as some larger ones, should wear sweaters when outdoors in freezing temperatures (no word on kimonos). Dale even suggests doggy booties to protect feet from frostbite and street salt. As for felines, again with the obvious: "Of course, life is safer and far more comfortable indoors for cats" - a tip echoed by the ASPCA.
And as Con Ed gets a smack from the state (and a smooch from the mayor) for last summer's blackout, let us not forget the deadly "stray voltage" plague of last winter, which claimed the life of Barkis. If for no other reason than the incompetence of our local utility, maybe those booties are a good idea.
Photo: Tamara Hey
