Cincinnati, Ohio – As winter cold lingers across the Ohio Valley into February, animal welfare experts are urging pet owners throughout Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and parts of West Virginia to remain vigilant as prolonged cold conditions continue to threaten pet safety. The region’s mix of freezing temperatures, gusty winds, and damp conditions can quickly turn routine outdoor exposure into a dangerous situation for animals.
According to the American Red Cross, pets should be kept indoors as much as possible during extended cold spells. Animals left outside are vulnerable to hypothermia and frostbite, especially overnight and during early morning hours when temperatures drop sharply. Cold weather can also make parked vehicles unsafe, as they can trap frigid air 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 often affects ears, paws, tails, and noses first. In extreme cold, frostbite can begin developing in as little as 10 minutes, particularly when wind chills are involved. Damage is not always immediately visible and may worsen hours or days later. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, weakness, slowed movement, lethargy, or pets 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 throughout the Ohio Valley 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 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 Ohio Valley safe through the remainder of winter.
