New York City, New York – As winter cold persists across New York from late January into February, pet safety organizations are urging owners statewide to take added precautions as extreme cold remains an ongoing concern. Even without a single major storm, extended cold exposure can quietly put pets at risk during daily walks, outdoor play, or overnight time outside.
According to the American Red Cross, pets should be brought indoors as much as possible during prolonged cold stretches. Animals left outside can suffer from hypothermia, frostbite, disorientation, or injury, while cold weather can turn parked vehicles into dangerous environments that trap frigid air. Overnight and early morning hours are especially hazardous when temperatures drop to their lowest levels.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals warns that frostbite in pets most often affects ears, paws, tails, and noses. In extreme cold, frostbite can begin developing in as little as 10 to 15 minutes, and injuries may not be immediately visible. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, weakness, slowed movement, anxiety, or seeking warm places to burrow. Pets showing these symptoms should be brought inside immediately and evaluated by a veterinarian.
Winter hazards extend beyond temperature alone. The ASPCA notes that salt and ice-melting chemicals used on sidewalks and roadways 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 when possible. Booties or vet-approved paw protectants can provide additional protection during repeated outings.
Experts also recommend limiting bathing during cold spells, keeping coats dry, and providing extra 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 protect New York’s pets through the heart of winter.
