Cincinnati, OH – Hamilton County officials are urging residents to take extra precautions with their pets this week as colder temperatures move into the region. As part of Winter Weather Preparedness Week, emergency managers say pets face many of the same cold-weather dangers as people — including frostbite, hypothermia, and chemical exposure from ice melt.
According to Hamilton County Emergency Management, pet owners should limit outdoor time, supervise walks closely, and bring animals indoors whenever temperatures fall. Officials noted that if it feels too cold for a person to be outside for long, it’s likely too cold for a pet as well.
The county also recommends bundling small or short-haired dogs in sweaters or coats, especially during windy or sub-freezing conditions. After each walk, owners are urged to check paws, ears, and tails for signs of frostbite and wipe off salt or deicers that could irritate skin or be ingested.
Emergency management officials further advise ensuring outdoor water bowls do not freeze, providing warm indoor bedding, and never leaving pets alone in vehicles during cold weather. Even short periods inside an unheated car can be dangerous as temperatures rapidly drop.
The department shared a reminder that pets rely on their owners for safe environments through winter. Officials encourage Hamilton County residents, including those in Cincinnati, Norwood, Springdale, and surrounding communities, to take steps now to keep pets warm and healthy throughout the season.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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