Pets and Winter Weather Hazards

Usually, this topic comes out around the holidays as a warning that “Winter is coming”. This year, however, winter is here! Michigan winters can be beautiful, but they can also be challenging for our pets. Cold temperatures, ice, snow, and common winter household hazards create risks that many pet owners don’t think about until a problem arises. At Brinker Veterinary Hospital, we want to make sure you and your pets are prepared.

One of the biggest concerns during winter is exposure to cold temperatures. Some dogs enjoy the snow, such as Huskies, Malamutes, Newfoundlands, and other thick-coated breeds, which were bred for winter and are thriving this time of year. We still recommend monitoring their outdoor activity closely, but these winter-loving breeds can spend longer amounts of time outside than most other dogs. For other pets, including small dogs, senior pets, thin-coated breeds, and pets with chronic medical conditions, winter can make them especially vulnerable. Prolonged exposure to the cold can lead to hypothermia or frostbite, particularly on the ears, paws, and tail. Limiting outdoor time in extreme weather and using well-fitting coats for short-haired dogs are all simple but effective ways to protect your pet. A good rule to remember is this: if it’s too cold for you, it’s probably too cold for your pet. 

Another common winter issue we see involves paw and skin irritation. Snow and ice can pack between paw pads, causing discomfort and cracking, while road salt and de-icing chemicals can irritate the skin and become toxic if pets lick their feet. Wiping your pet’s paws, belly, and legs after walks helps prevent irritation and reduces the risk of salt ingestion. Pet-safe paw balms for paw pads or protective booties can also be helpful, especially for dogs who spend a lot of time outdoors or walking on salted streets or sidewalks. Using “Pet-safe” de-icers are also recommended.

Snow and ice can also lead to lost pets, especially during storms when familiar scent trails disappear. Making sure your pet’s microchip information and collar ID are up to date is especially important during winter. Because it gets dark earlier, reflective collars or leashes can help improve visibility during evening walks. Frozen ponds and partially frozen lakes are another winter hazard—ice may look solid but can break unexpectedly, putting people and pets at serious risk.

Antifreeze exposure is one of the most serious winter dangers for pets. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol, which has a sweet taste that attracts animals, but even a very small amount can be fatal. Pets may encounter it in garages, driveways, parking lots or puddles along the road. Early signs of poisoning can include wobbliness, vomiting, and lethargy, but symptoms progress quickly to seizures and kidney failure. This is a true medical emergency! If you suspect exposure to antifreeze, seek veterinary care immediately. Minutes truly matter in these cases. Keeping your dog from licking any unknown substances off the ground is generally preferred.

Inside the home, winter brings its own set of concerns. Dry indoor air can worsen dry skin and itchiness, especially in pets with allergies. Humidifiers and veterinarian-recommended omega-3 supplements can help. Space heaters, while tempting in cold weather, pose burn and fire risks, and carbon monoxide exposure is another hidden danger during the winter months. Make sure Carbon monoxide detectors are working properly throughout your home for the safety of both you and your pets.

The cold can affect our senior pets and those with arthritis, making joint pain and stiffness more noticeable. If your pet is moving more slowly, hesitating before going outside, or struggling with stairs, it could be a sign of discomfort related to arthritis. Schedule an appointment to have your pet’s pain evaluated if any of these changes are noted. There are numerous supplements and medications we can prescribe to help keep your pet comfortable and moving like a well-oiled machine. 

Winter also brings holiday seasonal hazards that can linger long after the celebration is done. Toxic plants such as lilies, holly, and mistletoe, along with chocolate, xylitol-containing baked goods, fatty foods, and alcohol, continue to pose risks. Decorations like tinsel, ribbon, and string can cause dangerous intestinal blockages, especially in cats, and Christmas tree water may contain fertilizers or bacteria. If your pet does get into anything concerning, Pet Poison Help Line (855-7647-661) and ASPCA Poison Helpline (888-426-4435) are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Finally, winter can affect pets with chronic medical conditions in subtle ways. Changes in routine or appetite can impact diabetic pets, hypothyroid animals may struggle more with the cold, and pets with heart disease may experience increased strain from cold stress. If your pet has an ongoing medical condition, winter is a good time to check in with your Vet and make sure your pet’s care plan still fits their needs. It’s also important to make sure you don’t run out of your pet’s medication, as winter weather can sometimes prevent quick access to refills. Having at least 1 week of your pet’s medication on hand is recommended.

At Brinker Veterinary Hospital, we’re here to help keep your pets safe and comfortable this winter and all year long. If you ever have concerns or notice changes in your pet’s behavior, mobility or health, please don’t hesitate to call (248) 693-1677 or email info@brinkervet.com. We would always rather answer questions early than see an emergency later.

Dr. Molly Husman