Is It Too Cold to Walk Your Dog?

Parts of the US are dealing with temperatures way beyond their comfort zone this winter. If your four-footed friend is used to going outside at regular intervals, you might be worried about his safety. Here's a handy chart from veterinarian Dr. Kim Smyth that may help you out.

Of course, there are some caveats. You can see those in blue. Wet weather and breed of dog can tip the scale one or more points in either direction. Acclimation to the cold is an important factor, too. For instance, dogs who are training for the Iditarod in Alaska are conditioned to be in the cold over time. If you took an average Husky and dropped it off on an icy tundra, he would likely perish. If your dog is acclimated to cold weather, like many hunting and working dogs, his number on the TACC scale is different than if he’s used to lying in a warm bed all winter like my dog.

There are other variables. If you have a dog sweater or coat and/or boots, that will help your pooch brave the short time he must be outside to do his business. Read more about pets and cold weather here. -via Lifehacker