New Orleans, Louisiana – As winter cold continues to affect Louisiana into February, animal welfare experts are urging pet owners not to underestimate the risks posed by lingering cold conditions across the Gulf South. Pets in warmer climates are often less acclimated to extended cold, making chilly nights and early morning hours especially dangerous.
According to the American Red Cross, pets should be brought indoors as much as possible during prolonged cold stretches. Animals left outside can quickly develop hypothermia or frostbite, particularly when wind and damp conditions are present. Cold air can also make parked vehicles unsafe, as they can trap frigid temperatures and put pets at risk if left unattended, even briefly.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that frostbite in pets most commonly affects ears, paws, tails, and noses first. In extreme cold, frostbite can begin developing in as little as 10 to 15 minutes, and damage is not always immediately visible. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, weakness, slowed movement, lethargy, or seeking warm places to burrow. Pets showing these symptoms should be brought indoors immediately and evaluated by a veterinarian.
Winter hazards extend beyond temperature alone. The ASPCA notes that salt and ice-melting chemicals used on sidewalks, bridges, and parking areas can irritate paws and become toxic if ingested. Pet owners are encouraged to wipe paws, legs, and bellies after walks, check 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 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 into 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 Louisiana’s pets safe through the remainder of winter.
