Animals are suffering from the cold too, and Calgary shelters are filling up as the deep freeze continues.
Since the cold snap started, calls to the Calgary Humane Society have spiked as people report animals left out in the cold.
"We have received 85 calls in the last week alone with regard to animals being left out in the cold inappropriate conditions," said Desiree Arsenault with the humane society.
The humane society has also taken in a large number of stray animals, with about 40 dropped off in the past week. They also took in 12 animals that were seized from their owners.
The Meow Foundation, which rescues stray cats, expects a crush of animals as the weather breaks and they emerge from hiding.
"In about three weeks, I suspect we are going to be getting the survivors of this cold snap in here. And during that time, we are going to see bits of their ears falling off and bits of their tails," said Debbie Nelson of the foundation.
When the mercury drops below -15C, pets that stay outside must have a heated shelter, said Bill Bruce with the city's animal and bylaw services.
"Despite the myth that your cat or dog has a fur coat and will be fine, they cannot tolerate these temperatures," he said.
"Cats in particular will freeze their ears."
Bruce said breaking this law won't get you a ticket, but you will end up in front of a judge.
Animal experts said cats simply should not be outside in this weather and that if dogs are outside, it should only be for short periods.
The city urges people to call 311 immediately if they see an animal in distress in the cold.
