Providence, Rhode Island – As winter settles in across Rhode Island, animal welfare organizations are urging pet owners to take added precautions as extreme cold remains a lingering concern through late January and into February. Even brief exposure to frigid temperatures can place pets at risk, especially during early morning and overnight hours.
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, and disorientation in a short amount of time. Cold weather can also turn parked cars into dangerous environments that trap frigid air, making it unsafe to leave pets unattended even briefly.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals notes that frostbite in pets most often affects ears, paws, tails, and noses. In bitter cold, frostbite can begin developing in as little as 10 to 15 minutes, with injuries sometimes not fully visible until days later. Signs of hypothermia include shivering, weakness, slowed movement, anxiety, or seeking warm places to burrow, all of which require immediate attention.
Winter hazards extend beyond temperature alone. The ASPCA warns that salt and ice-melting chemicals used on sidewalks and roads 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 periods to prevent dry skin, 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 encourages families to include pets in winter emergency plans and keep several days’ worth of food, water, and medications on hand to help Rhode Island’s pets stay safe through the heart of winter.
