Amarillo, Texas – As winter cold continues to affect the Texas Panhandle into February, animal welfare experts are urging pet owners not to underestimate the risks posed by prolonged cold conditions across the region. The Panhandle’s exposure to strong winds and sharp temperature drops can create dangerous situations for pets, even during short outdoor trips.
According to the American Red Cross, pets should be brought indoors as much as possible during extended cold stretches. Animals left outside can quickly develop hypothermia or frostbite, especially when wind chills are involved. Cold conditions 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, and damage may not be 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 checked by a veterinarian.
Winter hazards extend beyond temperature alone. The ASPCA notes that salt and ice-melting chemicals used on sidewalks, parking areas, 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 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 pets across the Texas Panhandle safe through the remainder of winter.
