Winter brings a certain magic with it; snow-covered landscapes and a good excuse to stay inside. For pet owners, this season also brings a special set of responsibilities. Our furry family members rely on us to protect them from the unique hazards that come with dropping temperatures.

They might be furrier than we are (unless you own a sphynx), but they don’t have the luxury of hot cocoa and gloves. And just like jackets aren’t enough for us sometimes, assuming they’ll be fine because they have fur is false. You need to be ready for some paw care and emergency preparedness.

Here are ten straightforward tips to help your pets navigate the colder months safely and comfortably.

1. Create a Warm Indoor Haven

The most reliable way to protect pets from winter’s bite is to keep them inside. Even the hardiest animals can be vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite when left out in the cold for too long. A warm house is a safe house. Cars are not a safe alternative, as they can quickly become dangerously cold, acting like refrigerators on wheels.

Bringing pets indoors prevents exposure-related health issues and strengthens the bond between you and your animal. It allows you to monitor their well-being closely and enjoy their company during the colder months.

Quick Tip:

• Designate a specific warm, dry spot for your pet indoors with their favorite bed or blanket.

2. Provide Proper Outdoor Shelters if Needed

Sometimes, keeping a pet indoors full-time is not an option, particularly with certain types of working animals or livestock. If your animals must remain outside, they need a shelter that offers real protection from the elements. A flimsy structure will not do the job. The shelter should be sturdy, dry, and completely free of drafts.

A good outdoor shelter should be raised a few inches off the cold ground to prevent heat loss. Insulate it with a thick layer of straw or cedar shavings, which stay dry and resist rot better than blankets or towels. Finally, position the entrance away from prevailing winds to keep snow and cold air out.

Quick Tip:

• Check the shelter daily to make certain the bedding is dry and the structure is secure.

3. Ensure Access to Fresh Water and Food

Animals burn more calories in the winter just to stay warm, so they may need more food than usual. Outdoor pets and livestock also face the challenge of frozen water sources. Dehydration is a serious risk, even when surrounded by snow and ice. It is vital to check their food and water bowls multiple times a day.

Heated water bowls are an excellent investment for animals that spend significant time outside. These devices prevent water from freezing over, providing a constant supply of fresh, drinkable water. For food, make sure it’s stored in a place where snow or ice cannot block access.

Quick Tip:

• Use plastic bowls instead of metal ones outdoors, as a pet’s tongue can stick to frozen metal.

4. Protect and Pamper Their Paws

A simple walk around the block can be tough on a pet’s paws in winter. Sidewalks are often treated with salt and chemical de-icers that can cause irritation, chemical burns, or dryness. Ice balls can also form between their paw pads, leading to pain and cracking.

After every walk, gently wipe your pet’s paws with a damp, warm cloth to remove any salt, chemicals, or ice. For extra protection, consider using dog booties. If your pet refuses to wear them, a thin layer of petroleum jelly or a paw balm applied before going outside can create a protective barrier.

Quick Tip:

• Keep the hair between your dog’s paw pads trimmed short to prevent ice and snow from building up.

5. Choose Pet-Safe Ice Melts

Many standard ice melt products contain chemicals like sodium chloride or calcium chloride, which are toxic if ingested by pets. Animals often lick their paws after a walk, and consuming these chemicals can lead to stomach upset, vomiting, or more severe health problems.

Protect your pets and visiting animals by using ice melts specifically labeled as “pet-safe” or “pet-friendly.” These products use ingredients like urea or magnesium chloride, which are much less harmful if accidentally ingested. Always read the label and follow the application instructions.

Quick Tip:

• Scatter sand or non-clumping kitty litter on icy patches for a non-toxic traction alternative.

6. Take Care of Their Coat and Skin

The dry air of a heated home combined with cold outdoor temperatures can do a number on a pet’s skin and coat. You might notice more scratching, flakiness, or dandruff. A healthy coat is a pet’s natural insulator, so keeping it in good condition is important.

After walks in the snow or winter rain, towel-dry your pet thoroughly to prevent their skin from getting chapped. Reduce the frequency of baths during winter, as too much washing can strip natural oils from the skin. When a bath is necessary, use a moisturizing, soap-free shampoo. You can also add a skin and coat supplement containing omega-fatty acids to their diet after consulting with your vet.

Quick Tip:

• A humidifier in your home can help add moisture to the air, benefiting both your pet’s skin and your own.

7. Be Vigilant About Antifreeze

Antifreeze is extremely dangerous. It has a sweet taste that can attract animals, but even a very small amount of ethylene glycol, its main ingredient, can be lethal. Spills and leaks from a car’s radiator are common in driveways and garages, creating a serious hazard.

Clean up any antifreeze spills immediately and thoroughly. Store antifreeze containers in a secure location, well out of reach of pets. If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze, it is a medical emergency. Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital right away.

Quick Tip:

• Consider switching to a propylene glycol-based antifreeze, which is less toxic to pets.

8. Know Your Pet’s Cold Tolerance

Not all pets are built for the cold. A Siberian Husky will have a very different reaction to snow than a Chihuahua. Factors like breed, age, size, and overall health determine how well an animal can handle low temperatures. Short-haired, smaller, younger, or older pets are generally more vulnerable.

Pay close attention to your pet’s behavior. If they are shivering, whining, seem anxious, or are lifting their paws off the ground, it’s time to go inside. These are clear signs they are uncomfortably cold. If you are unsure about your pet’s limits, have a conversation with your veterinarian.

Quick Tip:

• A well-fitting sweater or coat can make a big difference for short-haired or small dogs during winter walks.

9. Check Your Car Before Starting It

During cold weather, outdoor cats and other small animals often seek out warm places to shelter. A recently parked car’s engine can seem like an inviting refuge. Unfortunately, this can lead to tragic accidents when the engine is started.

Before you get in your car, make a habit of banging firmly on the hood a few times and giving a quick honk of the horn. This noise is usually enough to startle any animal that may have crawled underneath or into the engine compartment, giving them a chance to escape unharmed.

Quick Tip:

• Do a quick visual check around and under your vehicle’s tires before you start driving.

10. Prepare a Winter Emergency Kit

Winter storms can lead to power outages or situations where you might be stuck at home for several days. Just as you prepare an emergency kit for the human members of your family, you should prepare one for your pets.

Your pet’s emergency kit should include at least five days’ worth of food and water, any necessary medications, and a copy of their vaccination records. Also include extra blankets, a pet first-aid kit, and familiar items like toys or a bed to help reduce their stress during an emergency.

Quick Tip:

• Store the pet emergency kit in a waterproof, easy-to-grab container near an exit.

Keep Your Pets Warm and Cozy

Keeping your pets safe during winter is all about awareness and preparation. By taking these simple precautions, you can help your animal companion enjoy the season without incident.

A great next step is to schedule a pre-winter check-up with your veterinarian (if you have any concerns). They can offer advice tailored to your pet’s specific health needs and answer any questions you have about their cold-weather care.