10 Tips To Keep Your Pets Safe Through The Cold Season!

From snowy forest trails to icy waterfalls and rivers, there's nothing like winter in the Pacific Northwest. And while winters here in Beaverton, Oregon, tend to be pretty mild, we still have the occasional cold snap! Keeping some cold weather safety tips in your back pocket is always a good idea. Today, we'll look at everything from paw protection to outdoor kitty shelters to help keep our furry friends safe and comfortable. 

Cold Weather Animal Safety Tips

#1: Know How Cold Is Too Cold

Knowledge is power, and knowing your pet's tolerance for cold weather is an important first step in keeping them safe. Not all pets will respond to the cold in the same way. In fact, your pet's cold tolerance threshold could vary based on several factors. 

First, consider their size and breed. While huskies were bred for extreme cold, pugs can quickly become uncomfortable when temps drop below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. You'll also want to consider your pet's coat type (short, long, wiry, silky, double-coated, thick, thin), age, and health history. Both senior dogs and puppies have a higher risk of hypothermia and frostbite. 

You can use the following guidelines as a helpful starting point, but be sure to consider your pet's unique needs and response to the cold when making decisions: 

• Above 45 degrees: safe and comfortable for most dogs without underlying health conditions
• 32-45 degrees: potential discomfort and moderate risk for small dogs and short-haired dogs
• 20-32 degrees: high risk for small dogs, seniors, puppies, and short-haired dogs; moderate risk for large dogs and long-haired dogs
• Below 20 degrees: extreme risk for all dogs

#2: Watch The Weather & Make A Plan

During cold snaps and winter storms, watch your weather apps! Try to plan walks and outings for the warmest part of the day and avoid going out during storms and windy conditions. If you do walk your dogs outdoors during a snowstorm, be sure to keep them leashed! Snowy conditions can be disorienting for off-leash pups and more dogs are lost during this season than any other. 

Remember that wind chill can increase the risk of hypothermia, even if the "actual" temperature is in a safe zone. If it’s extra windy, consider staying home or bundling them up for extra protection. 

#3: Protect Their Paws

Ice and snow aren't the only risks your pet's paws have to navigate during winter. Salt and other ice-melting chemicals can cause irritation between the toes and around the paw pads. Some commonly used ice-melting chemicals can also be toxic if ingested. For example, imagine you take your dog for a walk. Afterward, they get cozy in bed and lick their paws. They may ingest dangerous chemicals that have been brought in on their fur. Wipe down pets' paws with a damp towel after every walk. For extreme temperatures, consider investing in some winter booties to lower the risk of frostbite. 

#4: Invest In Cold Weather Protective Gear

In addition to booties, cold weather gear goes a long way towards keeping pets comfortable even in extreme cold. Small or thin-coated dogs, seniors, and puppies will appreciate a warm jacket or sweater. Waterproof items are also highly recommended here in Oregon, where winter rain is common. That's because damp items like sweaters can make pets colder and contribute to a higher risk of hypothermia. 

#5: Recognize the Signs of HypothermiaRegardless of the temperature, it's crucial to recognize signs of hypothermia. Hypothermia occurs when your pet's body temperature is dangerously low and, in severe cases, can be a life-threatening emergency. Common signs and symptoms include: 

• Shivering/trembling
• Sluggishness/moving slowly
• Muscle stiffness
• Whining/anxiety or hesitance to keep walking
• Cold ears and body
• Shallow breath or difficulty breathing
• Dilated pupils and pale skin

If you suspect your pet is hypothermic, contact your veterinarian or nearest veterinary urgent care ASAP! Your pet may need medical intervention to bring their body temperature back to a safe level. 

#6: Provide Safe Bedding for Indoor/Outdoor Cats

Not every kitty wants to be snuggled up indoors during the winter. Consider constructing a warm, insulated shelter for indoor/outdoor cats or feral cats in your neighborhood. This article by Alley Cat Allies has useful tips and ideas for creating a good outdoor cat shelter. 

Appropriate bedding is the most important thing to consider when making an outdoor cat shelter! Some beddings, like hay, blankets, and towels, accumulate moisture and become damp. This dampness actually draws body heat away and makes cats colder. Instead, use straw, which will resist moisture and keep the shelter warm. 

#7: Check Your Car Before Each Trip

During the cold winter months, animals of all sorts are drawn to warm car engines. Check underneath your car, bang on the hood, and honk the horn before starting the engine to make sure no critters have made a bed out of your engine.

#8: Take Care Of Pets' Skin & Coats

Damp fur and wet conditions can lead to itchy, flaking skin. The ASPCA recommends wiping pets down with a towel immediately after they come inside to avoid skin issues. Cold weather can also dry a pet's skin out (just like ours!). If possible, keep bathing to a minimum during the coldest months to preserve natural oils and prevent dry, irritated skin. 

#9: Keep Antifreeze Safely Out Of Reach

Antifreeze is a deadly poison! It's estimated that 90,000 pets are poisoned by antifreeze each year. That's because it has a sweet flavor that pets enjoy. But even one teaspoon can be fatal or cause severe kidney damage. Keep antifreeze stored in a sealed container away from pets and quickly wipe up any spills. 

If you think your pet has ingested antifreeze, seek immediate veterinary attention. Antifreeze is absorbed quickly once ingested and starts forming toxic metabolites quickly. Any delays in treatment can be deadly.

#10: Be Prepared For Anything!

When it comes to winter weather—for both people and their pets—a little preparation goes a long way. We recommend keeping at least a two week supply of food, water, and medications on-hand. That way, if the city shuts down due to icy conditions, you and your pets will be safe and comfortable staying home together.  

Have Questions? Mountainside Is Here To Help.
​Whether you and your pets are snowy adventurers or prefer to cuddle up on the couch until the cold passes, we hope you have a fantastic winter! If you have any questions about keeping your pet safe and comfortable through the cold snap, get in touch. Our team is happy to help in any way we can. 

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