What to do in the event of freezing?

Since dogs and cats have hair, they are rather resistant to low temperatures. However, if they are wet, damage to the body can occur. Falling into small lakes, ponds or long stays in the snow can be dangerous for the animals.

The body temperature drops dangerously and if it is not brought back to normal values in a short time, vital activities may be compromised, risking the animal life.
Some areas of the body can freeze: the most affected parts are the ears, the tail, the limbs, and the genital organs as they are less protected from the hair and have a greater exchange of heat with the outside. The affected area is numb and may appear dark in colour due to a lack of blood circulation and tissue death. Immediate action must be taken on the one hand by heating the body and on the other by attempting to restore circulation in the area affected by freezing.
The animal must be transported in a warm environment, wrapped in a blanket, and heated with hot water bottles. In case of hypothermia (36-37 °C), after measuring the rectal temperature, lay the unfortunate animal in a tub with hot water and then dry it thoroughly with a hairdryer. Moist heat, such as rags moistened with steam, should be applied to the frozen part. Act gently without rubbing the tissues so as not to create damage and not administer any medication before the arrival of the veterinarian.