7 Ideas Straight From the Vet to Keep Your Pets Safe in Snowstorms

As widespread blizzards and cold fronts hit pet owners across the US this month, we wanted to ensure that you’re ready to keep your pet protected, no matter how much they love or hate the snow. Fortunately, national pet organizations like the American Veterinary Medical Association and many others have tips on just what to do. 

We listened to expert advice from the vets and developed this quick guide so you know what to watch for when especially cold weather hits and how to keep your pets safe and happy. Let’s start with some blizzard prep.

Stock up on supplies and create an emergency kit

Like the rest of us, your pets get hungry in cold weather. They’re more likely to use more energy to stay warm and eat more as a result. Stock up on all the food and supplies your pet needs, especially if your pet eats more exotic or prescription food.

Remember, the power may go out and the roads may be impassable in the worst winter storms. It’s a good idea to have an emergency kit of extra food, blankets and any medications that your pet may need.

Important note: If your pet hasn’t been to the vet for a while, it’s a good idea to schedule a checkup before really bad winter weather. That’s even more true if your pet suffers from medical conditions that cold weather could make worse (like arthritis, for example).

Wipe off your pet after a wintry walk

Winter walks with your pet can be a special, fun-filled time – with a few hazards you should watch for. Most can be managed by giving your pet a thorough wipedown after a winter romp, cleaning their paws and stomach especially.

De-icing chemicals and, most notoriously, spilled antifreeze can hurt or poison your pet when they start licking off winter snow, so it’s best to take care of this step for you. Remember, antifreeze is usually a bright color like blue, green or red and should be avoided at all costs if you notice a patch in the snow (the toxic chemical tastes sweet and may attract pets).

Finally, keep your doggos and other animals on a leash when walking during heavy snowfall for their safety and yours.

Keep pets inside during bad storms

If a blizzard is raging, don’t let your pets outside even if it’s their usually routine. It’s easier for a pet to get lost during winter storms when usually landscapes and scents are messed up, and that can put them at risk for hypothermia.

You can get an affordable pet tracker like this Petcube model if your pet is determined to play in the snow, but wait until the storm has passed before you let them outside.

Don’t let pets get too close to furnaces, heaters or cars

Pets will natural seek out sources of heat if your home gets unexpectedly cold during a freeze wave. But don’t let them get too close to heat sources like fireplaces, furnaces, radiators and space heaters. They could burn themselves or knock over heaters and cause fires (or drag their toys in range to cause the same hazard).

Also, if pets have access to your car always give it a few knocks or a quick search in the morning before you start it. Cats especially like curling up near the engine to take advantage of the warmth, which can create dangers when the car turns on.

Boost thermostat heating at night

If nights are getting especially chilly and you notice your pets seem uncomfortable — or you’re trying to keep them off the bed — you can boost your thermostat heating by several degrees until the winter storm passes. This is also an excellent way to decrease the risk of dreaded frozen pipes.

Upgrade your pet’s fashion with a sweater

Smaller dogs, especially shorthair dogs, can find it difficult to keep warm when winter temps plunge. If you haven’t picked out a pet sweater for them yet, now is the right time.

Dogs are usually fine with a simple pull-on sweater and even booties, especially if they get treats while you introduce them to winter clothes. Cats are less likely to comply, but you can keep them warm with a sweat too if they accept. Popular brands include Duluth, Frisco, Top Paw, Little Beast and many others.

Chip your pet and update their ID tag

Like we mentioned — and vet organizations warn — it’s much easier for pets to get lost when a disorienting winter storm hits. They’re likely to seek out whatever warm spot they can find when this happens, and may be found by others. Help locate your pet by making sure your furry friend is microchipped, and if they wear an ID tag check that it has up-to-date contact info just in case.

To get even more ready, check out how bad weather could affect your internet connection and how to save the food in your fridge if the power goes out. For other winter storm prep tips, find out how to prevent your pipes from bursting, how to prepare your solar panels for snow and ice, and 10 home maintenance tips for the cold months.