By: Alana Mauger

Between cold temperatures, ice, snow, and shoveling (and shoveling…and shoveling), it’s shaping up to be a tough winter for many of us. As we take precautions to keep our families safe and warm, it’s important to remember that Fido, Fluffy, and all their furry (and not so furry) friends have special seasonal needs as well. 

Inside is best

In the words of cartoonist Charles Schultz, “Happiness is a warm puppy.” As a general rule, if you’re cold, so is your pet. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), dogs and cats should be kept inside during cold weather, as they are susceptible to frostbite and hypothermia, just like people. For farm animals that must live outside or neighborhood pets (like feral cats), it’s important to provide areas where they can shelter against wind, rain, and snow. Be sure they have access to non-frozen drinking water and plenty of food.

Cold vehicles, just like hot ones, can be deadly for pets. As a car cools down in the winter, it becomes like a refrigerator and can rapidly chill dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals. The AVMA recommends limiting your pet’s travel during cold weather and never leaving your pet unattended inside a vehicle.

Winter walks

Don’t worry – Fido can still enjoy his walks this winter, but you may want to shorten them during very cold days to protect you both from weather-related health risks. Also, be sure to wash and dry your pup’s feet and stomach after each walk to remove ice, salt, and chemicals that can cause dryness and cracking or may be toxic if ingested. Don’t forget to wash between each toe!

For especially sensitive paws, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) suggests applying petroleum jelly to your pup’s paw pads before going outside for an added layer of protection. Coats and booties are also available for purchase if your pooch has a flair for fashion.

Be an advocate

Some people genuinely don’t know the risk that cold weather poses to animals. If you encounter a pet left out in the cold, the Humane Society of the United States encourages you to politely express your concern to the owner. If the neglect continues, the organization offers guidance on how to report your concerns.

Get prepared

If Fido or Fluffy get sick or injured, you need to be prepared to take immediate action. The free Red Cross Pet First Aid app puts veterinary emergency advice and pet care information in the palm of your hand. The app includes step-by-step guidance for treating dogs and cats in 24 emergency scenarios, as well as informative videos and interactive quizzes. The Red Cross also offers a 35-minute online course in Cat and Dog First Aid. The course costs $25 and is available any time.

Primary image description: a graphic with the American Red Cross logo and an illustration of a cat with a red scarf. Next to the cat is the phrase “Bring your pets inside during cold weather.”

Secondary image description: an image with three smartphones, all displaying the Red Cross Pet First Aid App. Next to the phones is the header “Pet First Aid App”. Underneath it is the sentence: “The free Pet First Aid App provides guidance on your pet’s health, what to do in emergencies and how to include pets in your preparedness plans.”