The winter ice storm that has left over a million people in the northeast US without lights and heat caught most of us by surprise. The last weather report that I paid attention to mentioned a chance of sleet! This chance of a weather event that may have inconvenienced the morning driving commute became one of the most damaging winter storms in over a decade. Walking around my neighborhood the next day I was caught by the absence of noise. Areas like those in these pictures normally teamed with activity. Silence greeted me where normally I would find birds, cats and the chance fox. I was caught unprepared as a member of a human only household. I lacked batteries, flashlights, candles and matches. I imagine that pets left outside during the storm suffered considerably. Would I have been prepared as a pet owner?
One of the hazards a pet may face in winter when exposed to extreme cold is frostbites on the feet, ears and other areas of the body not covered by enough hair. Signs of frostbites include skin that is pale and cool to the touch and decreased sensation in the affected area. After thawing, there may be pain and the skin may look like it was burned. If frostbite is suspected, gently thaw the area with lukewarm water, then take your pet to a veterinarian.
During the cold weather, it is a good idea to knock on your car's hood or sound the horn before starting the engine as cats permitted to run free or stray cats that are looking for a warm spot, often climb up inside the engine seeking some comfort. Needless to say this can be harmful for the cat and for your engine.
Pets and their owners will suffer for a long time. Power could be out well into the week. Homes with electric heat will be very cold. I can dress with more layers and fleece. Pay attention to the behavior of your pets! Help is on the way, but it could take time. "This is the absolute, most significant power restoration effort we've ever had. There has not been a storm before that has affected more customers," the state of New Hampshire's largest utility, Public Service Company of New Hampshire spokesman Martin Murray said.Public Service officials suggested repairs for at least some homes and businesses will go into next week. They lined up 300 crews from as far away as Maryland and Ohio to be in the state by Sunday and were looking for more.
Crews from Canada and South Carolina were headed to Maine, where Gov. John Baldacci declared a limited emergency allowing utility crews to work longer hours.
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