We are waking up to some bone-chilling temperatures in Acadiana this morning and over the next few mornings. We hear our local meteorologists talk about protecting the three "Ps" all the time -- plants, pipes and pets.

It's the latter that I want to talk about right now. It just breaks my heart when I see any animal outside when it's below freezing. I'm a country boy, so I obviously know that cows, horses and the like have shelter to help them and they are quite acclimated to frigid temperatures.

It's our smaller furry friends that we are talking about here. The family pets.

The good folks at the Humane Society of America have all you need to know in regards to keeping your four-footed family members safe and warm.

KEEP PETS INDOORS AND WARM

The best prescription for winter's woes is to keep your cat or dog inside with the family. Happy dogs are brought for frequent walks and exercise but are kept inside the rest of the time.

Don't leave pets outdoors when the temperature drops. During walks, short haired dogs may feel more comfortable wearing a sweater.

TAKE PRECAUTIONS IF YOUR PET SPENDS A LOT OF TIME OUTSIDE

If your cat or dog spends a large part of its day outdoors, he or she must be protected by a dry, draft-free shelter that is large enough for them to sit and lie down comfortably but small enough to help them to keep in their body heat. The floor should be slightly raised off the ground with some type of straw or wood shavings. The doorway should be covered with waterproof burlap or heavy plastic.

GIVE YOUR PETS PLENTY OF FOOD AND WATER

Pets who spend a lot of time outdoors need more food in the winter because keeping warm depletes energy. Regularly check your pet's water dish to make sure the water is fresh and unfrozen. Use plastic food and water bowls. When the temperature is low, your pet's tongue can stick and freeze to metal.

BE CAREFUL WITH CATS, WILDLIFE AND CARS

Warm engines in parked cars can sometimes attract cats and other wildlife, who may crawl up under the hood. To avoid hurting any hidden animals, bang on your car's hood to scare them away before you drive off.

SPEAK OUT IF YOU SEE A PET LEFT OUT IN THE COLD

If you come across a pet left out in frigid conditions, document what you see: the date, time, exact location, type of animal, plus as many details as possible. Video and/or photo documentation will help bolster your case. Then contact your local animal control agency or sheriff's office and present your evidence. Take detailed notes as to who you spoke with and when. Respectfully follow up in a few days if the situation has not been remedied.

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