Pets and Snowstorms: 7 vet ideas to keep them safe.

Veterinary groups and pet experts outline seven practical measures for cold-weather pet safety, including preparing emergency supplies, keeping animals indoors during severe storms, cleaning paws after walks, and confirming identification. The guidance aims to reduce risks such as hypothermia, poisoning from de-icing chemicals or antifreeze, burns near heaters, and pets becoming lost.

Blizzards and cold fronts have affected parts of the U.S. this month, bringing renewed attention to pet safety in freezing conditions. National veterinary organizations, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, have issued practical guidance for caring for animals during severe winter weather. Reported advice focuses on preparation, reducing outdoor exposure during storms, and watching for hazards such as de-icing chemicals, antifreeze, and heat sources. This article summarizes seven ideas drawn from veterinary recommendations. Key points: - Emergency supplies and kit: Veterinarians and pet organizations recommend extra food, blankets and any required medications because power outages and impassable roads can affect access to supplies. - Post-walk cleanup: Wiping and cleaning a pet’s paws and underside after snowy walks is advised to remove de-icing chemicals and possible antifreeze, which is often colored and toxic if licked. - Indoor safety during storms: Keeping animals indoors during active blizzards is noted to lower the risk of pets becoming lost or developing hypothermia; pet trackers are mentioned for locating animals but only after conditions improve. - Heat and vehicle hazards: Pets seeking warmth may approach furnaces, space heaters or car engines; reported concerns include burns, fire risks, and cats hiding near engines that could be harmed when a vehicle starts. - Home heating and clothing: Raising indoor heat at night during very cold spells and using sweaters or booties for small or short-haired dogs are listed as ways reported to increase warmth. - Identification and microchips: Microchipping and ensuring ID tags have current contact information are recommended because disorienting winter conditions make it easier for animals to become separated from caregivers. Summary: The reported guidance is intended to reduce cold-related injuries, poisoning, burns and the chance that pets become lost during winter storms. Measures summarized include preparing emergency kits, limiting outdoor exposure in severe weather, cleaning pets after walks, managing indoor heating and hazards, and confirming identification. Undetermined at this time.