With this extreme cold, animals are at very high risk of developing frostbite and hypothermia.

According to Dr. Melissa Smith of Bellamy Harrison Animal Hospital, animals "Ear, feet, and tail tips, are especially susceptible to frostbite", which could lead to death.

Dr. Smith goes on to say that proper shelter and dry bedding is key for animals left outdoors but keeping animals inside is the safest place for them during extreme cold.

"When it gets really cold, we try to find alternate ways to keep their minds active with indoor activities like food puzzles or something like that. Or just going for multiple shorter walks if they're not used to the cold."

Other tips from Dr. Smith include keeping the animals out of the wind, up off the cold ground and dressing them in coats and booties when going for walks.

Another tip, especially for farmers, is banging on the hood of your car before starting it to prevent injury of any cats who may have crawled up under the hood for warmth. As for those with cattle, it is important that they are given bedding, and if you can also provide shelter from the wind like an open face shed.

Outdoor animals may also need more food in the cold so that they can conserve more of their energy for staying warm. Also, all animals need access to fresh water, as eating snow is not adequate hydration. A heated bowl may be required to keep the water from freezing or just replacing water several times a day.