As we saw last winter, a warmer start to the season doesn’t mean it’ll stay that way. In January 2025, Winter Storm Cora brought plunging temperatures and significant snow and ice to Central Texas. And such conditions don’t just pose dangers to humans — pets and other animals are also susceptible to harm in winter.
Here’s what to know about keeping animals safe when temperatures drop.
There are several other proactive measures you can take to keep your pet — or someone else’s — safe in Central Texas winters.
Along with preparing dogs for walks and providing aftercare, consider making adjustments to the walk itself. Shortening the length of a walk will limit a pet’s exposure to frigid temperatures. The American Red Cross also warns against walking on frozen water such as ponds and lakes. Both you and your pet are at risk of falling through the ice — even ice that appears thick enough to support the weight. Crashing through ice and into subzero waters can be deadly.
Whether you go on walks or let pets into a yard to do their business, watch out for signs of hypothermia. According to the American Red Cross, this can present in pets as whining, shivering, anxious behaviors, moving slower than usual or not at all, or looking for warm places to burrow. If you notice any of these, bring them inside right away. Pets can also contract frostbite, which is more difficult to detect and may go unnoticed for multiple days. Consult your veterinarian immediately if you suspect your furry friend has developed hypothermia or frostbite.
Pets are also at risk of hypothermia and frostbite if left in cold vehicles for any amount of time — especially if the animals are relatively young, old, sick or thin.
Just as it’s recommended to carry emergency kits in vehicles and homes during the winter months, it’s a good idea to have an emergency kit that includes pet items. This includes enough food, water, prescription medications, and heartworm and flea/tick preventatives to last at least five days. Experts also suggest packing paw protectants, booties or paw covers, a thermal blanket, a hot water bottle or heat pack, and reflective gear to ensure pets are visible during nighttime walks.
