Winter Weather Tips

It's important to make sure your pet is safe and warm no matter what the weather.

• Keep your pet inside when it's cold and wet outside. Of course, dogs do have to go out to do their “business,” but limit the time they spend in the elements.
• Provide outdoor animals with a warm, dry, secure shelter out of the wind, such as a garage, barn, or insulated pet house.
• Always have fresh, clean, unfrozen water available for pets. Your dog or cat is just as likely to get dehydrated in the winter as in the summer. Snow is not a satisfactory substitute for water.
• Ice melting chemicals can injure your pet’s paws. They could also get sick from licking the residue off their feet or the floor. After pets have been outside, clean their paws well, making sure to check between the pads for clumps of ice, snow, or ice melting chemicals. Wipe up any melted snow or ice you may have tracked indoors.
• Gently towel or blow-dry your dog or cat if they get wet.
• Outdoor animals often nap on warm car engines and hoods. Knock on the hood or honk the car horn before starting the engine.
• Pets like the smell and taste of antifreeze, but even a small amount can kill them. Clean up spills at once, and store antifreeze securely away from pets.
• Groom your pets. Pets need well-groomed coats to keep them properly insulated.
• If you do suspect your pet has become sick or injured, contact your veterinarian immediately. If you see an animal in distress due to the cold, call 9-1-1 or your area’s animal control agency. To reach Regional Animal Services of King County, call 206-296-7387 (PETS).

RASKC is pleased to share these behavior and wellness resources from nationally recognized animal welfare organizations. You can also find more resources on our Pet Assistance Program page.