WINNIPEG – The harsh winter has been tough not only on Winnipeggers, but for animals around the city as well.
The Winnipeg Human Society says it’s taken in more than 50 frostbitten animals — mostly cats but some dogs — so far this winter.
“We’ve had quite a few cats that have lost some parts like ears and tails,” said Dr. Erika Anseeuw of the Winnipeg Humane Society. “We’ve actually had a few that were so severely frostbitten we’ve had to euthanize them.”
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Like humans, animals that have skin exposed during an extreme wind chill will freeze in just minutes. Cat fur doesn’t protect the animals from the cold very well in those freezing temperatures, Anseeuw said.
The Winnipeg Humane Society also believes there seems to be more frostbitten cats than dogs because people think felines can withstand the cold better, so they’re more likely to ignore them on the street.
Owners must also do their part, keeping their pets indoors so they don’t freeze.
“The issue is not just the weather, it’s the fact the cats are out there having a hard time, so if you see stray cats in your area bring them,” said Answeeuw. “We’ll look after them, try to find their owners or try to talk to owners about identification and keeping them inside.”
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