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As the cold settles over Texas, pet parents should take extra precautions to ensure their animals stay safe and comfortable. A pet’s age, breed, and overall health can affect how well they tolerate the cold, but freezing weather can be life-threatening to any animal. We strongly recommend bringing companion animals indoors during freezing weather. For outdoor animals, it’s essential to provide access to drinking water and proper shelter in compliance with the Safe Outdoor Dogs Act.
More is Better: Outdoor pets require extra care during colder months. These animals may need 25-50% more calories to replenish energy lost to stay warm, so ensure they have plenty of food. Use plastic bowls for food and water to prevent freezing or accidental injuries from metal bowls. Proper shelter is critical—elevated doghouses or structures that protect from the wind are ideal, and adding blankets, towels, or hay can help keep them warm and dry.
Car Caution: If you care for outdoor cats, remember that they often seek warmth under car hoods. Before starting your car in cold weather, bang on the hood to ensure no cats are sheltering there. Never leave pets in a parked car during freezing weather, as it can act like a refrigerator, rapidly dropping to unsafe temperatures.
Equine and Farm Animals: Farm animals and horses also need extra attention. Horses should have access to a barn or a three-sided structure to block the wind and cold. While not all horses need blankets, they can be invaluable for keeping horses warm and dry in freezing conditions, particularly in rain or snow. Water troughs and buckets should be checked frequently to ensure they haven’t frozen. If grazing isn’t available, providing extra hay and grain can help farm animals maintain their body temperature.
Distress Signs: Finally, watch for signs of hypothermia in your pets, such as shallow breathing, lethargy, weakness, or shivering. If you notice these symptoms, bring your animal indoors immediately and contact your veterinarian. By taking these steps, you can help keep your animals safe and comfortable throughout the winter season.
On February 15, 2021, Houston SPCA and HPD responded to four dogs left in the freezing weather in southwest Houston. They discovered one dog deceased and rescued three other dogs from the freezing temperatures. The community is encouraged to call 713-869-7722(SPCA) if they see an animal in immediate distress or report cruelty at HoustonSPCA.org.
