Winter Pet Care Basics: Keeping Your Dog or Cat Safe in Cold Weather

Winter may look different from year to year, but colder temperatures, wind, and dry air can still pose real challenges for pets. At Shallowford Animal Hospital, we believe that winter pet care basics start with awareness—understanding how cold weather affects your dog or cat and making small adjustments that go a long way toward protecting their health. If you ever have concerns about how your pet is handling winter weather, we encourage you to call us at (336) 945-4412 so we can help you decide the next best step.

Why Winter Can Be Tough on Pets

Just like people, pets feel the effects of cold weather. Lower temperatures can make it harder for them to regulate body heat, especially during outdoor activities or in drafty indoor spaces.

Some winter-related risks we commonly see include:

• Hypothermia and frostbite, particularly affecting ears, paws, tails, and noses
• Dry, itchy skin caused by cold air and indoor heating
• Joint stiffness and arthritis flare-ups, especially in senior pets

Certain pets are more vulnerable than others, including puppies and kittens, senior pets, small breeds, short-haired animals, and pets with chronic health conditions. Even pets that spend most of their time indoors can be affected by colder temperatures and reduced activity.

Signs Your Pet May Be Too Cold

Pets don’t always show discomfort in obvious ways, which is why it’s important to watch for subtle changes during winter.

Behavioral signs to watch for:

• Shivering or trembling
• Hesitation or refusal to go outside
• Lifting paws during walks
• Seeking warm, hidden places to rest

Physical signs that may need veterinary attention:

• Cold ears or paws
• Pale or bluish skin
• Lethargy or weakness
• Cracked paw pads or excessive dryness

If you notice these symptoms or feel unsure about your pet’s comfort level, it’s best to check in with a veterinarian.

Adjusting Your Pet’s Routine for Winter

One of the most important winter pet care basics is adapting daily routines to match seasonal conditions.

Outdoor time and walks:

• Keep walks shorter but more frequent during colder days
• Avoid early morning or late evening walks when temperatures are lowest
• Consider booties or pet-safe paw balms to protect paws
• Always dry your pet’s paws, legs, and belly after being outside

Indoor comfort and enrichment:

• Provide warm, draft-free sleeping areas
• Use cozy bedding raised off cold floors
• Increase indoor play and mental stimulation when outdoor activity is limited

Nutrition and hydration:

• Monitor weight changes due to altered activity levels
• Ensure fresh water is always available
• Talk with us before making any changes to your pet’s diet

Common Winter Hazards to Avoid

Winter brings its own set of household and outdoor dangers, including:

• Antifreeze spills, which are highly toxic to pets
• Ice melt and sidewalk salt can irritate paws or be harmful if ingested
• Space heaters and fireplaces that pose burn risks
• Seasonal decorations, cords, and holiday plants

Being mindful of these hazards can help prevent emergencies during the colder months.

How Shallowford Animal Hospital Can Help This Winter

We’re here to support your pet all season long. During winter, we can help by providing:

• Comprehensive wellness exams to catch cold-weather issues early
• Arthritis and mobility support for aging pets
• Skin and coat evaluations to address dryness and irritation
• Nutritional guidance tailored to seasonal changes
• Personalized recommendations based on your pet’s age, breed, and lifestyle

Our goal is to keep your pet comfortable, active, and healthy throughout winter.

Putting Winter Pet Care Basics Into Action

Staying proactive with winter pet care basics helps protect your dog or cat from seasonal risks and keeps them feeling their best. From recognizing signs of cold stress to adjusting daily routines and scheduling routine checkups, small steps can make a big difference. If you have questions or would like to schedule a winter wellness visit, call Shallowford Animal Hospital at (336) 945-4412—we’re always happy to help care for your pet this winter and beyond.

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