A spokeswoman for the Cheyenne Animal Shelter is reminding pet owners not to leave their animals outside during cold winter weather.

Katie Emmons says that if the weather is cold enough so that you don't want to be outside, your pet probably shouldn't be outside for long either. Emmons says that if for some reason your animal  needs to be outside for a longer period you should make sure there is adequate shelter facing away from the wind. She says bedding or blankets are also helpful, and says it's important to make sure your pet has access to unfrozen water.

Emmons says large dogs with a lot of fur may be able to tolerate outdoor weather better than smaller breeds. Emmons says cat owners who allow their pets outside should keep the outings brief, adding you may want to bring your cat back indoors even if it seems to want to stay out.

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