Keeping pets and plants in mind as temperatures drop to freezing in Southern Colorado

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- While it might be warm during the day, don't let the sun fool you. In the overnight hours, temperatures are reaching the 30s and even the 20s in some areas across Southern Colorado. That's why officials are reminding pet owners and gardeners to be mindful of the cold nights.

For pet owners, it's time to bring your animals inside overnight. According to veterinarians, temperatures below 40 degrees can be harmful, or even fatal, to pets.

"They can end up getting frostbite on their toes, tails, and ears," Powers Pet Emergency Veterinarian Dr. Dana Goodard said. "They can even lose those parts of their body if they get too frozen. It can affect their circulation to a point where they could even die. Just like humans get hypothermia, dogs and cats get hypothermia."

Veterinarians say it's best to bring your furry family members inside or to make sure there's an accessible doggy door so they have the option.

If that is not possible, experts say to bring them into the garage with a pet bed or elevated surface. Dog houses can also work well if they are insulated and raised off the ground.

Another thing to keep in mind is potted plants. Temperatures below 40 degrees can kill tender plants. That includes outdoor succulents, tender agave, and mums.

“You’re gonna want to bring those inside, bring them into a cool room that has light and that’s where they’re gonna spend the winter," Rick's Garden Center Co-Owner Daniel Hopper said.

Plants that go dormant in the winter can be brought into a garage or covered with a frost cloth. But year-round plants need to be brought inside to survive.

Harding Nursery in Colorado Springs says to first spray the pot with a house plant pest remover, then sprinkle a granular into the soil, and water it in. This will kill any pests before bringing the plant into your home.