Charleston, South Carolina – As winter cold continues to affect South Carolina into February, animal welfare experts are reminding pet owners that even short-lived cold spells in the Southeast can pose serious risks for pets. Animals unaccustomed to prolonged cold are especially vulnerable when temperatures dip overnight and remain low during early morning hours.
According to the American Red Cross, pets should be brought indoors as much as possible during extended cold stretches. Animals left outside can develop hypothermia or frostbite in a short amount of time, particularly when wind and damp conditions are present. Cold weather can also turn parked vehicles 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 warns that frostbite in pets often affects ears, paws, tails, and noses first. 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 indoors immediately and checked by a veterinarian.
Winter hazards extend beyond temperature alone. The ASPCA notes that salt and ice-melting chemicals used on sidewalks and driveways 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 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 keep South Carolina’s pets safe through the remainder of winter.
