Chicago, Illinois – As winter cold continues to persist across the Great Lakes region into February, animal welfare experts are urging pet owners to remain vigilant as lingering cold conditions pose serious risks for pets. From northern Illinois and Indiana to Michigan, Wisconsin, and northern Ohio, extended cold, lake-enhanced winds, and periods of snow and ice can quickly create dangerous conditions for animals.
According to the American Red Cross, pets should be kept indoors as much as possible during prolonged cold spells. Animals left outside are vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite, particularly overnight and during early morning hours when temperatures are lowest. Strong winds common near the Great Lakes can accelerate heat loss, increasing the danger even when temperatures are only moderately cold. Parked vehicles can also become unsafe, trapping frigid air and placing pets at risk if left unattended.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that frostbite in pets most often affects ears, paws, tails, and noses first. In extreme cold, frostbite can begin developing in as little as 5 to 10 minutes, especially when wind chills are involved. Damage is not always immediately visible and may worsen hours or days later. Signs of hypothermia include intense shivering, weakness, slowed movement, lethargy, anxiety, or pets seeking warm places to burrow. Pets showing these symptoms should be brought indoors immediately and examined by a veterinarian.
Winter hazards extend beyond temperature alone. The ASPCA notes that salt and ice-melting chemicals widely used on sidewalks, parking lots, and roadways across the Great Lakes can irritate paws and become toxic if ingested. Pet owners are encouraged to wipe paws, legs, and bellies after walks, inspect for cracks or redness, and use pet-friendly ice melt products whenever possible. Booties or vet-approved paw protectants can provide added protection during repeated outings.
Experts also recommend limiting bathing during cold spells to prevent dry, flaky skin, keeping coats dry, and providing slightly increased calories to help pets maintain body heat. Pets should have warm, draft-free sleeping areas off the floor, and antifreeze spills should be cleaned immediately, as ingestion can be fatal.
With cold conditions expected to linger through mid-February, the Red Cross advises families to include pets in winter emergency plans and keep several days’ worth of food, water, and medications on hand to help keep pets across the Great Lakes region safe through the remainder of winter.
