Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can endanger the health and safety of pets. Here are lifesaving tips to keep them safe from the impacts of winter weather.
Susan Anderson
Director of Disaster Response, ASPCA National Field Response
As we enter some of the coldest months of the year, pet owners should keep several things in mind to ensure the health and safety of their furry friends. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals® (ASPCA®) urges pet owners to prepare in advance and take notice of the following potentially lifesaving tips during severe winter weather.
If it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet
Keep walks to a minimum, make sure your dog always wears an ID tag, and never let your dog off-leash on snow or ice, especially during a snowstorm. Dogs can lose their scent in the snow and easily become lost or disoriented. Keep your pets inside where they can stay cozy and safe. Ensure your furry companion has a warm, dry place to sleep, ideally off the floor and away from drafts. If you notice symptoms of frostbite, such as discoloration, swelling, or skin ulcers, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Keep your home humidified
Repeatedly going into the cold and then coming back into a warm home can cause itchy, flaky skin. Pay close attention to your pet’s feet and in-between their toes for cracks or redness, and be sure to remove any snow from between their foot pads to prevent skin irritation.
After each walk, make sure to clean and dry your pet
You may want to bring a towel on long walks to clean off irritated paws. While on a walk, your pet may step in salt or de-icing chemicals, which can be painful. If you notice any paw pad irritation, you can massage petroleum jelly or other vet-approved paw protectants into paw pads. Booties can also be effective to protect paws from irritating salts and chemicals when out on walks. Use pet-friendly ice melts whenever possible.
Maintain fur length and avoid frequent baths
Longer coats provide more warmth, like wearing a winter coat. If your pet is long-haired, trim them to minimize clinging ice balls, salt crystals, or de-icing chemicals, but never shave your pet down to their skin. Bathing too often can also remove necessary essential oils and increase the chance of developing dry skin. If you must bathe your pet, use a moisturizing shampoo or rinse recommended by your veterinarian.
Thoroughly clean up any antifreeze spills
Antifreeze is lethal for both dogs and cats, and pet parents should be extra careful when using this chemical. Consider using products that contain propylene glycol rather than ethylene glycol. Additionally, cold weather chemicals like ice melts can be dangerous when ingested, so always be mindful and keep chemicals out of paws’ reach. If you suspect your pet has been exposed to any poisonous substances, contact your veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at 888-426-4435 immediately.
To learn more about keeping your pets safe and warm this winter, visit the ASPCA’s website at aspca.org/coldweather.
