Time to make some hot cocoa and cuddle up with your furry friends; a winter weather watch has been issued encompassing the Willamette Valley.
The National Weather Service put out this watch in response to the coming cold front expected Friday, Jan. 31 through Sunday, Feb. 2, possibly icing roads, sidewalks and park trails.
Nightly temperatures are forecasted to drop to mid-twenties alongside rainfall starting Saturday night and lasting through Wednesday, Feb. 5.
Lead Meteorist Lee Picard with the NWS said the valley floor would likely receive a mix of rain and snow, creating a visibility barrier for drivers, and advised slower road speeds. Bridges and overpasses should be traversed with caution.
Of course, not everyone is happy to stay inside. Dogs need their walks!
Snow or not, owners should take extra care of their pets when going for walks in these cold temperatures. Use the following guidelines to help protect your pooch from hypothermia and frostbite:
Emancipet Veterinarian Care advises for walks that “keeping it under 30 minutes in very low temperatures is a good rule of thumb.”
Make sure to bundle up your pup if you’re able before taking them outside. A nice sweater from Grandma benefits their body temperature as much as a human!
Keep an eye on your dog’s behavior during the walk. Shivering, slowing down, or lifting paws high can all be signs of your pet getting too cold outdoors.
Petroleum jelly rubbed on paw pads can mitigate dryness and cracking. Trimming your pet’s toe hair can also prevent ice from accumulating within their paw pads.
Once getting back home, wipe down your dog’s chest, stomach, legs and paws to remove any de-icer or other chemicals they may have picked up on their bodies.
If your pet is kept outdoors, ensure they have access to fresh water, checking often that it isn’t frozen. Give them insulating materials to stay warm, like straw that won’t get wet and freeze.
Most importantly, give your pets plenty of love and care. Nothing warms a dog’s heart quite like affection.
