The extreme cold temperatures heading for Marion County this week also affect pets. Dr. Craig Burk, DVM with Knoxville Veterinary Clinic says firstly it is very important to provide fresh water for pets. He says that once a day really is not enough, either, that it should ideally be two to three times a day, so pets don’t get dehydrated. Dr. Burk says that pets also suffer hypothermia and frostbite; particularly those with short coats. He says if at all possible, let them in or provide a heated area for them to get in out of the cold. He adds that insulated bedding such as hay or straw in a garage or in their outside house is helpful, if they can’t come in.