Cold Weather Poses Risks for Pets and Livestock, Officials Warn

JOBEnews.com

As wintry weather and bitter wind chills move into the region, officials are reminding residents that the cold doesn’t just impact people — it affects animals, too.

Weather and animal safety officials urge pet owners and livestock handlers to take extra precautions during cold and windy conditions. One of the most important steps is providing animals with a warm, dry shelter. Whenever possible, pets should be brought indoors to protect them from freezing temperatures and dangerous wind chills.

Officials also caution drivers to make noise or check around their vehicles before starting them. Cats and other small animals often seek warmth near engines or wheels, which can put them at serious risk if a vehicle is started without warning.

Pet owners are encouraged to regularly check their animals’ paws, especially after being outdoors. Salt and chemical ice melts used on roads and sidewalks can irritate or injure paw pads, and frostbite is also a concern. Wiping paws with a warm cloth after coming inside can help prevent injury.

Recognizing signs of cold-related distress is also critical. Whining, shivering, anxious behavior, slowed movement, or lethargy may indicate an animal is suffering from hypothermia and needs immediate warmth and care.

Fresh food and water should always be available, and owners should ensure water sources have not frozen. For outdoor animals and livestock, officials recommend enclosed shelters, plenty of bedding, and access to unfrozen water throughout the cold snap.

With winter weather expected to continue, officials stress that a little extra preparation can go a long way in keeping pets and animals safe during extreme cold conditions.